For more mental health resources, see our National Helpline Database.
Know the Signs
Prevention first involves being able to recognize the warning signs of suicide, which can include:
Extreme mood swingsFeelings of hopelessnessGiving away possessionsLosing interest in activitiesTalking about death or suicideSaying goodbye to family and friendsSaying that they are a burden Withdrawing from friends and family
Suicide is a serious problem and any suicide threat or attempt should be taken seriously. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there were more than 47,000 suicides in 2017. The following are some suicide prevention tips recommended by the non-profit organization Suicide Prevention Resource Center. Follow Now : Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Google Podcasts Most importantly, never dismiss suicidal talk or threats. If a person is making comments that seem to indicate that they are depressed or thinking of taking their own life, you should always take them seriously. If they are still alive, however, they are desperately seeking an alternative to death and attempting suicide may be their way of reaching out and saying that they need help. Being a good listener doesn’t require any special skills. Be patient and accepting, but avoid getting into an argument or trying to offer simplistic solutions. Avoid any “Have you tried X, Y, or Z” comments that focus on quick “fixes.” Such attempts might come off as insensitive and seem to trivialize what a person is experiencing. Simply be there and show that you care. Working to take away the stigma around depression and encouraging people who are hurting to get the help that they need right away can go a long way in saving lives because the problem is dealt with before it gets too bad. There are also mental health organizations you can reach out to for more information.
