Tips for Understanding and Helping the Suicidal Person

A person might be suicidal if he or she:

Talks about committing suicide

Has trouble eating or sleeping

Experiences drastic changes in behavior

Withdraws from friends and/or social activities

Loses interest in hobbies, work, school, etc.

Prepares for death by making out a will and final arrangements

Gives away prized possessions

Has attempted suicide before

Takes unnecessary risks

Has experienced a severe loss

Is preoccupied with death and dying

Loses interest in their personal appearance

Increases their use of alcohol or drugs

What to do:

Be direct. Talk openly and matter-of-factly about suicide.

Be willing to listen. Allow expressions of feelings. Accept the feelings.

Be non-judgmental. Don&Mac226;t debate whether suicide is right or wrong, or feelings are good or bad. Don&Mac226;t lecture on the value of life.

Get involved. Become available. Show interest and support.

Don't act shocked. This will put distance between you.

Don't be sworn to secrecy. Seek support.

Offer hope that alternatives are available but do not offer glib reassurance.

Take action. Remove means, such as guns or stockpiled pills.

Get help from persons or agencies specializing in crisis intervention and suicide prevention.

* Provided by the American Association of Suicidology

Note: The presence of one of these warning signs does not guarantee that an individual is at risk for suicide. However, all of these warning signs should be taken seriously.

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