No single intervention or prevention program can prevent all suicides. Suicide is most effectively prevented by a comprehensive approach through implementation of programs across all ages and settings. Suicide prevention is everyone's business.
What are the warning signs of suicide?
If you are concerned about someone, ask yourself the following questions. Have they shown or shared any of the following:
- Talking about wanting to die, be dead, or about suicide, or are they cutting or burning themselves?
- Feeling like things may never get better, seeming like they are in terrible emotional pain (like something is wrong deep inside but they can't make it go away), or they are struggling to deal with a big loss in their life?
- Or is your gut telling you to be worried because they have withdrawn from everyone and everything, have become more anxious or on edge, seem unusually angry, or just don't seem normal to you?
How can you respond?
If you notice any of these warning signs in anyone, you can help!
- Ask if they are okay or if they are having thoughts about suicide
- Express your concern about what you are observing in their behavior
- Listen closely and do not judge
- Reflect what they share and let them know they have been heard
- Tell them they are not alone
- Let them know there are resources available that can help
- If you or they are concerned, guide them to additional professional help
