Talking about suicide can seem tough, but it can be literally life-saving. This advice from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention will get you started. You can get more information here.
You can also help local mom Susan Rosenstock, who founded a non-profit to help prevent suicide after her son, Evan Rosenstock, killed himself in. Umttr.org reminds student athletes -- and all young people, that they matter.
First of all, in an emergency, contact:
- Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Psychiatric hospital walk-in clinic
- Hospital emergency room
- Urgent care center/clinic
- Call 911
Second, that people who kill themselves exhibit one or more warning signs, either through what they say or what they do. The more warning signs, the greater the risk.
Talk
Pay attention if a person talks about:
- Killing themselves.
- Having no reason to live.
- Being a burden to others.
- Feeling trapped.
- Unbearable pain.
Behavior
A person’s suicide risk is greater if a behavior is new or has increased, especially if it’s related to a painful event, loss, or change. Watch for:
- Increased use of alcohol or drugs.
- Looking for a way to kill themselves, such as searching online for materials or means.
- Acting recklessly.
- Withdrawing from activities.
- Isolating from family and friends.
- Sleeping too much or too little.
- Visiting or calling people to say goodbye.
- Giving away prized possessions.
- Aggression.
Mood
People who are considering suicide often display one or more of the following moods:
- Depression.
- Loss of interest.
- Rage.
- Irritability.
- Humiliation.
- Anxiety.
More information from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention can be found here.
