*National Suicide Prevention Lifeline* 1-800-273-8255
Here is my video about how and why noticing suicidal behaviors is so important. I hope you will support us by subscribing and sharing this content
Special thanks to Ellen Reynolds with Healing The Heart LLC.
Reach out to Ellen @
Phone - (314) 246-9502
Email - healingtheheart83@gmail.com
Located @
7602 big bend blvd
Saint Louis, MO 63119
What to do if someone you care about may be considering suicide:
ACT®: Acknowledge, Care, and Treatment
1. ACKNOWLEDGE
Do take it seriously. If you recognize warning signs in your friend or loved one, it is very important to take them seriously. In fact, the majority of people who die by suicide gave some indication of their intention to those close to them.
Do listen attentively. Even if professional help is needed, your friend or loved one will be more willing to seek help if you have listened carefully to them.
2. CARE
Do voice your concern. Take the initiative to ask what is troubling your friend or loved one, and attempt to overcome any reluctance on their part to talk about it.
Do let the person know you care and understand. Continue to be available to your friend and show interest and support.
Do remain calm. Although it might upset you to hear thoughts about suicide, assure your friend or loved one that you will be there for him or her and that help is available.
Do ask if the person has a specific plan. (Note: asking about suicide does not cause a person to think about or complete suicide)
How to start the conversation:
Mention the things that are concerning you: “You have been acting really down lately” or “You’ve been missing a lot of work and seem distracted when you are at the office.”
Be direct: “Have things gotten so desperate, that you are thinking about suicide?” or “Have you ever thought of killing yourself?”
Listen and remain calm.
Assure the person that help is available and treatment works.
There is no perfect script for talking to someone about suicide. It is most important to show the person you care by being a good listener and offering to support or accompany them in finding help.
What to Avoid
Trying to cheer the person up, or tell them to snap out of it.
Assuming the situation will take care of itself.
Being sworn to secrecy.
Leaving the person alone, unless they act in a threatening way. Then, leave and call 911.
Conversations about mental health and suicide can be tough. If you are helping someone who is dealing with intense psychological pain, you may want to seek support for yourself.
3. TREATMENT
Do get professional help immediately. If your friend or loved one is exhibiting any suicidal warning signs, assist them by contacting a mental health professional, or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). You can also call 911 or assist them with getting to the nearest emergency room.
If for any reason you are unsure, uncomfortable, or unable to take action, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
If the person seems unwilling to accept treatment, call the police, your local hospital emergency department, or 911 if you feel that he or she is in immediate danger.
Take precautions to consider your own personal safety. It is important not to put yourself in harm's way.
Suicidal crises do not last forever. Timely intervention can make a difference and save a life. Even if someone seems angry at you for helping, in time they will be grateful for it.
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