Suicide Prevention
- jenniferashleylcsw
- Sep 10, 2021
- 2 min read
Every 45 Seconds, we lose someone to suicide.
700,000 people die by suicide globally each year
Below are supports and resources. If you or anyone you know is struggling, reach out today.
You matter.
Common Warning Signs of Suicide
Talking about wanting to die or wanting to kill themselves
Talking about feeling empty or hopeless or having no reason to live
Talking about being a burden to others
Withdrawing from family and friends
Giving away important possessions
Saying goodbye to friends and family
Putting affairs in order, such as making a will
Displaying extreme mood swings, suddenly changing from very sad to very calm or happY
Using alcohol or drugs more often
Acting anxious or agitated
Changing eating or sleeping habits
5 Action Steps for Helping Someone in Emotional Pain
1. ASK: “Are you thinking about killing yourself?” It’s not an easy question, but studies show that asking at-risk individuals if they are suicidal does not increase suicides or suicidal thoughts.
2. KEEP THEM SAFE: Reducing a suicidal person’s access to highly lethal items or places is an important part of suicide prevention. While this is not always easy, asking if the at-risk person has a plan and removing or disabling the lethal means can make a difference.
3. BE THERE: Listen carefully and learn what the individual is thinking and feeling. Research suggests acknowledging and talking about suicide may reduce rather than increase suicidal thoughts
4. HELP THEM CONNECT: Save the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s (1-800-273-TALK (8255)) and the Crisis Text Line’s number (741741) in your phone, so it’s there when you need it. You can also help make a connection with a trusted individual like a family member, friend, spiritual advisor, or mental health professional
5. STAY CONNECTED: Staying in touch after a crisis or after being discharged from care can make a difference. Studies have shown the number of suicide deaths goes down when someone follows up with the at-risk person.
CRISIS RESOURCES
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
National Hopeline Network: 1-800-SUICIDE (800-784-2433)
Crisis Text Line: Text “DESERVE” TO 741-741
Lifeline Crisis Chat (Online live messaging): https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat/
Veterans Crisis Line: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net
TransLifeline: https://www.translifeline.org – 877-565-8860
Emergency: 911
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