Suicide Prevention
Suicide Prevention Begins With Knowledge
Risk Factors
- Depression, bipolar disorder, or other mental illness
- Significant loss (divorce, death, loss of health, separation, break-ups, loss of respect)
- Pressure to succeed
- Family problems
- Poor self esteem
- Family history of suicidal behavior
- Someone close to individual has completed suicide
Warning Signs
- Talking about suicide, death, or preoccupation with dying
- Trouble eating or sleeping (sleeping all the time, unable to sleep at all, not able to eat or overeating)
- Significant changes in behavior and/or personality
- Withdrawing from family and friends
- Loss of interest in activities, work, school, hobbies, or social interactions
- Giving away prized possessions
- Previous suicide attempts
- Increased drug and/or alcohol use
- Statements about hopelessness, or worthlessness
- Taking unnecessary risks
- Sudden happiness or calmness following a depressed mood
- Obsession with suicidal means (guns, knives, hanging materials)
- Problems in school or work performance
- Chronic pain or frequent complaints of physical symptoms
- An inability to concentrate, trouble remembering things
What To Do
- Take all suicide threats seriously. Listen and express concern in a nonjudgmental way.
- Take action! Get the individual connected with professional help.
- Ask questions openly ("Do you have a plan? Will you talk with someone who can help?")
- Show that you care.
What Not To Do
- Do not keep it a secret
- Do not sidestep the issue or treat it lightly.
- Do not leave the person alone.
- Do not offer simple solutions.
- Do not judge.
- Do not offer or suggest drugs or alcohol.
- Do not try to be a therapist. Get professional help.
