You don’t need to be an expert, although getting training can help.** Being a good listener is a really important skill.
If you notice someone who might be struggling – start a conversation. And if all is well, that person will know you’re someone who cares enough to ask. Asking, “Are you okay?” can change lives.
There are often warning signs when someone is thinking about suicide. Here are a few ways to identify if someone you care about could be at risk.
You can’t put the idea of suicide into someone else’s thoughts and feelings
If a person talks about:
- being a burden to others
- feeling trapped
- experiencing unbearable pain
- having no reason to live
- killing themselves
Specific behaviors to look out for include:
- increased use of alcohol or drugs
- acting recklessly
- withdrawing from activities or isolating from family and friends
- fatigue and/or aggression
- calling people to say goodbye
- giving away “prized” possessions
People who are considering suicide may show one or more of the following moods; often it is a change from what you would regularly see:
- sadness or feeling low
- anxious
- loss of interest
- rage
- irritability
- humiliation
Ask the Question – if you feel someone close to you may be at risk, express your concern and ask about it directly:
- Are you thinking of suicide?
- Are you thinking of ending your life?
Connect them with help and resources – Encourage them to speak with a crisis line counselor or their own counselor or person or mentor they trust (faith community leader, sponsor)
- Connect with the crisis and help lines
- If they seem reluctant to call, offer to start the call with them or go to the drop in center with them
- Help them make an appointment with their chosen provider
- Arrange an appointment; if the appointment isn’t soon (a day); suggest calling the crisis line to get some support immediately
- Share crisis line numbers and encourage them to put them in their cell phones or on a place where they can easily find them.
**If you are interested in an introductory training in suicide prevention go to https://www.gettrainedtohelp/com and sign up for a Question Persuade and Refer class – available in person and virtually.