Perfectionism is a risk factor for suicide.
Today is World Suicide Prevention Day. Perfectionism is a leading risk factor for suicide and suicidal thoughts. Living life with shame and constant blaming oneself for life’s shortcomings leads to low self-esteem and self-worth. Perfectionists tend to hold themselves to such high and unrealistic standards that they can constantly feel like they’re not worthy of a “good life” because nothing they do is ever good enough. When perfectionists feel like they have let others down, their fear and guilt of causing harm can lead to feelings of wanting to end their life in order to stop the pain and stop themselves from causing pain to others. Living life berating themselves, criticizing their shortcomings with brutal honesty can lead perfectionists to believe that they are not worthy of being alive.
Moms, Teens, Everyone
This is especially true for moms during postpartum time as they’re needed to be “on” 24/7 and the demands of childcare are quite high. This is also true for children and teens who are raised by hypercritical parents who focus first and foremost on their mistakes and shortcomings and sparingly on their successes. So much so, that these kids view successes as a fluke of luck instead of created by them. Don’t suffer in silence. Reach out for help. You are not weak, unworthy, unjustified, wrong, defected, or stupid for asking for help.
We all need support. Reach out to a friend, loved one, a therapist you trust. Call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline 800-273-8255. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention, and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals. The FCC has designated 988 as the new nationwide number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline to be completed by July 2022.