This story discusses suicide. If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
We’ve all experienced the irritability of sleep deprivation, but when sleep deprivation continues for a long time, poor sleep health It can cause much more serious effects.
Some experts warn that people with chronic sleep disorders are more likely to experience suicidal thoughts.
Most Americans miss warning signs of suicide, new study finds: ‘Alarming’
Fox News Digital spoke to Dr. Taft Parsons III, vice president and chief psychiatric officer at CVS Health in Birmingham, Michigan, about this connection.
“There is no single cause.”
Parsons said research shows that 42% of Americans share concerns about their mental health, and 18% say they have suffered from suicidal thoughts at some point in the past year.
He pointed out that suicide is very complex, involving several intersecting risk factors.
Some experts warn that people with chronic sleep disorders are more likely to experience suicidal thoughts. (St. Petersburg)
“Suicide is not caused by a single cause, but by a combination of factors. health factors“along with other psychosocial and environmental variables that can increase the likelihood that someone will take their own life,” he told Fox News Digital.
These can include social and environmental factors such as long-term stress and legal and financial issues, he noted.
U.S. suicide rate reaches record high, according to CDC data
Past trauma or mental health issues — such as depression substance use disorder Sleep can also be a factor.
“Some of these factors are more difficult to address than others, but seeking help for your sleep problems and disorders is a step toward addressing one of your potential risk factors. It’s possible,” Parsons said.
Why do sleep problems increase your risk?
Sleep deprivation can negatively impact important functions such as decision-making, impulse control, problem-solving skills, emotional regulation, and resilience, Parsons said.
“When people suffer from sleep deprivation, they can increase a variety of negative health outcomes, including heart disease and type 2 diabetes,” he said.
Experts say sleep deprivation can negatively impact important functions such as decision-making, impulse control, problem-solving skills, emotional regulation, and resilience. (St. Petersburg)
“It is also depression and anxiety, both of which may play an important role in suicide. ”
A well-rested person is ready to face life’s challenges effectively. stress management Maintain a positive mindset, experts say.
“Improved sleep also reduces impulsivity and emotional dysregulation that can be associated with suicidality,” he said.
Signs of sleep-induced suicidality
People who are suicidal often exhibit sudden changes in behavior, Parsons said.
These may include new sleep problems such as insomnia or oversleeping.
Optimize six biomarkers to improve sleep: ‘essential for health’
“Similarly, we consider withdrawal from friends and family, reckless behavior, or increased drug use to be red flags,” he told FOX News Digital.
“So focusing on sudden or uncharacteristic changes in sleep is the key factor, and not necessarily the number of nights.”
Some experts say people who are suicidal often exhibit sudden changes in their behavior. These may include new sleep problems such as insomnia or oversleeping. (St. Petersburg)
According to Parsons, it’s important to recognize the common signs of sleep deprivation to prevent the mental health effects of sleep deprivation.
Sleep deprivation often causes problems with concentration, memory, decision-making, problem-solving, and regulating emotions and behavior, he said.
“Focusing on sudden or uncharacteristic changes during sleep is the key element.”
“People who don’t get enough rest and have difficulty regulating their emotions are at increased risk of making poor decisions and are less able to cope effectively when faced with overwhelming stress.” warned Parsons.
Untreated sleep apnea poses ‘devastating’ risks to people’s lives, including heart problems, experts say
“If these problems occur suddenly, escalate, or recur, they may indicate a more serious or underlying problem. mental health problem. “
Experts recommend that adults get 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night.
“People who don’t get enough rest and have difficulty regulating their emotions are at greater risk of making poor decisions and are less able to cope effectively when faced with overwhelming stress. ” (St. Petersburg)
In general, children and teens need more sleep than adults.
When to ask for support
Experts advise people suffering from sleep problems to seek treatment if they can’t deal with the problem on their own.
“Many people unknowingly develop habits that interfere with good sleep, so it’s important to start a sleep hygiene program over several weeks,” Parsons suggested.
The dangers of sleep deprivation: how staying up all night affects your physical and mental health
“If you notice someone exhibiting warning signs of suicide, such as sudden sleep disturbances, or other signs such as mood changes or verbal cues, reach out, have an honest conversation, and express your concerns. It is important to connect them with support,” he said.
“No matter where you fall on the mental health spectrum, there are resources available to help you prioritize your well-being.”
Even if it turns out suicide isn’t a concern, someone may feel comforted, supported and reassured by someone taking the time to connect and listen, Parsons said. do.
Click here to sign up for our health newsletter
He stressed that people do not have to wait until they are in crisis to seek help.
“No matter where you fall on the mental health spectrum, there are resources available to help you prioritize your well-being,” he said.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
“The sooner you connect to support and resources, the sooner you will feel better and the more resilient you will be overall.”
If someone is showing signs of suicidal thoughts, it is important to contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 and seek immediate help.
For more health articles, visit: www.foxnews/health.
