Suicide Awareness & Prevention
Know the Warning Signs
- Statements indicating suicidal thinking
- References indicating a desire to die
- Depression or other mood changes
- Withdrawal from friends/family
- Drug or alcohol abuse
- Impulsiveness or recklessness
- Anger and anxiety
- Feeling trapped and hopeless
- Suffering a major loss or life change
- Access to self-destructive means
Know Ways You Can Help
- Take all comments about suicide seriously.
- Ask directly, “Are you thinking about killing yourself?”
- Listen to the person and acknowledge their pain.
- Help the person feel understood and let them know you care.
- Avoid judging or inducing guilt.
- Avoid being pledged to secrecy.
- Do not leave an actively suicidal person alone.
- Refer the individual to professional help.
- If help is refused, consult with a professional.