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Did you know that 70% of people who die by suicide tell a loved one or show warning signs?
If you notice any signs in someone you care about, you are in a position to help, and need to take that responsibility seriously. It's important that you ACT now, just as you would to any medical emergency that your friend was facing. Because suicide is so often linked with mental illness, your friend may not be able to get the help he or she needs without you. Here’s how to ACT to help a friend, co-worker or loved one that you are concerned about:
Acknowledge:
- Take it seriously. Warning signs must be taken seriously, especially since most people who die by suicide do show warning signs before their death.
- Be willing to listen. Even if professional help is needed, your loved one will be more willing to seek help if you have listened to him or her.
Care:
- Voice your concern. Take the initiative to ask what is troubling your loved one, and attempt to overcome any reluctance on their part to talk about it.
- Let the person know you care and understand. Reassure them that they are not alone. Explain that even if it seems hard to believe right now, suicidal feelings-although powerful-are only temporary, and that the usual cause (depression) can be treated.
- Ask if the person has a specific plan. Ask if a suicide plan exists, and if so, how far has he or she gone in carrying it out? (Please note: asking about suicide does not cause a person to think about suicide. This is a myth!)
Treatment:
- Get professional help immediately. You can find resources in your area by going to:
- If the person seems unwilling to accept treatment, call 1.800.273.TALK (8255) or a local emergency room for resources and advice.
- If the person seems willing to accept treatment, do one of the following...
- Bring him or her to a local emergency room or community mental health center. Your friend will be more likely to seek help if you accompany him or her.
- Contact his or her primary care physician or mental health provider.
Click here to find out what to expect if you bring someone in for a mental health evaluation
If you currently feel that your friend is suffering from a potentially life-threatening problem, we encourage you to take him/her to the nearest emergency room or call 911 to seek immediate professional help.
It can be a very confusing and troubling time when someone you know is considering suicide. Click here for more information on what to avoid when seeking help for a friend.
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You probably help your loved ones when their car breaks down, when they need a
babysitter at the last minute, and when they are fighting with their friend or
family member. You would definitely help them in an emergency - if they were
choking, or having a heart attack. Contemplating suicide is an emergency, and
demands your attention. ACT now to help your friend get the
help he or she needs.
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