From Prevention Action Alliance
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Suicide is a topic that is stigmatized and often not discussed openly with others—even with those we care about.
When someone you know has suicidal ideations, it can be scary, uncomfortable and concerning. The purpose of this month is to inform and engage professionals and the public about suicide prevention and the warning signs of suicide. Suicidal thoughts can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or background. They should not be considered normal and may indicate a more serious issue.
Signs and Symptoms
While some people talk openly about thoughts of suicide, others may keep their feelings secret. To help someone you know who might be struggling, here are signs to watch out for:
Extreme mood swings.
Has difficulty controlling emotions.
Feelings of fear, worry, guilt or shame.
Feelings of hopelessness, being trapped or are out of options to handle their situation.
Experiences severe mental and/or physical anguish.
Says they have no reason to live. Talks about wanting to kill themselves.
Talks about being a burden to others.
Sleeps too little or too much.
Sudden changes in appearance, such as losing or gaining weight and change in hygiene.
Limits time with loved ones.
Increased alcohol consumption or drug use.
Does things that may be dangerous and doesn’t think about what might happen.
Buys a weapon.
This is not a comprehensive list but a way to gauge any situation that you may be concerned about. Thinking about suicide does not mean, necessarily, they will go through with it. It does not mean that they are “going crazy.” It’s often a sign of wanting help and there are ways to be supportive.
How Can You Help?
Suicidal behaviors are a psychological emergency, so start by asking the person if they want to kill themselves and if they have a plan and the means to complete that plan. Talking about it helps to figure out how to best support them and what type of help is needed. If a person discloses a plan and has the means to complete that plan, professional intervention should be taken immediately. Call 911 with the name and location of the individual and indicate that they need a wellness check.
Other ways to help someone who is talking about suicide:
Encourage them to make connections with other people, particularly friends, family or other loved ones.
Recommend that they get professional help for any mental health concerns, like depression or anxiety, they may be experiencing.
Ensure they have crisis hotline numbers and tell them to call or text when they need immediate help.
Check in with them often and really listen.
Additionally, you can take advantage of mental health first aid and QPR (Question. Persuade. Refer.) trainings. You can work with local coalitions to help raise awareness to ensure your family and friends have access and understanding of suicide prevention resources. (See below.) It also can be as simple as reaching out to someone you know who is lonely or isolated just to talk about their day.
It’s scary when someone we know says they want to die, but suicide is preventable. It’s up to each one of us because everyone has a role they can play to help create healthy and strong individuals, families and communities.
Photo: K-12 Insight