Starting a conversation about suicide may be one of the hardest things you have to do in your life. But knowing the gravity of the situation, our ability to reach out to someone who may be contemplating suicide is critical and may make all the difference in the outcome. Helping them understand they are not alone, that depression is normal and treatable, and that help is available are important parts of addressing this issue with a friend or family member.
Suicide is the second leading cause of death today in the U.S. for people ages 10 to 34. According to a recent article by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), the only real way to know if someone is at risk is to ask. For All Seasons is promoting a community campaign to “ASK, LISTEN, and SHARE” as we recognize National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Ask - “Are you OK? Are you having suicidal thoughts?” Listen - Be fully present without judgment. Allow the person to share their story. Share - Connect them to services. For All Seasons is just a phone call away.
Risk factors for suicide
Although there is no single cause for suicide, depression that is undiagnosed or untreated is the most common condition associated with suicide. Suicide often occurs when life stressors and health issues converge, leaving some people experiencing hopelessness and despair.
Warning signs of suicide
A change in behavior or the presence of entirely new behaviors may be warning signs of suicidal thoughts, especially if related to a painful event, loss, or change. Most people who take their lives exhibit one or more warning signs, either through what they say, what they do, or sudden mood changes.
Suicide prevention tips
We all have a role to play in suicide prevention. Some tips for dealing with someone who is considering suicide, are:
- Be proactive: There are times when you notice that something is off for a friend or family member. Take note of changes in talk, behavior, and mood. Pay attention to your gut.
- Talk about it. Start a conversation in a private safe space about how that person is doing. Listen to their story. Focus on showing your support and compassion. Tell them you care about them. Avoid debating the value of life, minimizing their problems, or giving advice. You don’t have to have all the answers. Be direct. Research shows that asking someone if they are having suicidal thoughts will not put the idea into their mind.
- Reduce access to means of self-harm. A suicidal crisis is often temporary and often lasts minutes. Consider what items are a danger to someone who could be suicidal. Remove and/or lock up these items.
- Get Help. Encourage them to seek treatment or contact their doctor or therapist or a crisis line and/or mental health services right away. Build-in choice. Stay with the person until they have received support.
- Follow Up. Continue to check in regularly and be a source of understanding and support.
One of the most important pieces of advice is not to wait for the “perfect moment” to ask about suicide; that moment will never come. Ask anyway because suicide is too important to keep secret.
For help, contact For All Seasons 24/7 at 410-822-1018 or the 24-Hour Crisis Hotline: Text: 410-829-6143 | English: 410-820-5600 | Spanish: 410-829-6143. Persons may also call Maryland Crisis Connect 24/7 – Dial 211 or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255). For further information about For All Seasons activities related to Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, visit www.nomatterwhatyoumatter.org.
Source: https://www.nami.org/Blogs/NAMI-Blog/September-2019/How-to-Ask-Someone-About-Suicide
