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Numbers to Call in
an Emergency
If you are currently suicidal or
are concerned that a loved one may be, you can call:
HopeLine
1-800-844-7410
Teen TalkLine
1-800-844-7403
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:
1-800-273-TALK (8255)
If there is an emergency where
you or someone has attempted suicide, call 911 or go immediately to
your local emergency room. |
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Warning Signs
of
Suicide
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Threats of suicide, or
talking of wanting to hurt or kill him/herself
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Talking of death or
dying, preoccupation with themes of death (particularly if this is a
change for the person)
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Previous suicide
attempts
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Recent suicide death of
a friend or relative
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Dramatic mood changes
or changes in personality such as nervousness, sudden bursts of anger,
irritability, violence, unexplained crying
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Withdrawal from friends
and family, increased isolation
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Self-destructive
behavior, increased risk-taking and recklessness
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Increased substance
abuse or depression
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Giving away prized
possessions
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Lack of interest in the
future (hopelessness), no or few reasons for living or purpose in life
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Note: Although no single
sign necessarily means an imminent suicide, the above can be indicative of
the need for increased vigilance.
If You are Worried That Someone is Considering Suicide
TAKE ANY MENTION OF DEATH OR SUICIDE SERIOUSLY. If someone you know talks
about suicide, asking direct questions about how, when and where he or she
intends to commit suicide may help prevent the attempt.
It is natural to fear that a question about suicide may anger or offend
someone you care for---or even that it may put the idea of suicide into a
person's mind. However, you cannot make someone suicidal by asking
straightforward, caring questions. A person considering suicide may
welcome the chance to talk about these feelings.
If Someone is Threatening to Commit Suicide
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Take the person
seriously. Stay calm and let the person know you are willing to
listen.
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Involve other people.
Don't try to handle the crisis alone or put yourself in danger. Get help
from a suicide hotline or call 911 if necessary. Contact the person's
family, psychiatrist, therapist, doctor or others who are trained to
help.
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Express concern.
Ask direct questions and listen. Try to find out if the person has a
specific plan for suicide and what it is.
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Be understanding,
not judgmental. Remind the person that suicide is a permanent
solution to a temporary problem and that there is help and hope.
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Never promise
confidentiality. You may need to speak to the person's doctor in
order to protect the person. Secrecy can endanger your loved one's life.
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If possible, don't
leave the person alone until you are sure he or she is in the care
of professionals. |
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