Understanding And Helping The Suicidal Person
Be Aware of the Warning Signs
There is no typical suicide victim. It happens to young and old, rich and poor. Fortunately there are some common warning signs which, when acted upon, can save lives. Some signs to look for include:
- Talks about committing suicide
- Gives away prized possessions
- Has trouble eating or sleeping
- Has attempted suicide before
- Experiences drastic changes in behavior
- Takes unnecessary risks
- Withdraws from friends and/or social activities
- Has had recent severe losses
- Loses interest in hobbies, work, school, etc.
- Is preoccupied with death and dying
- Prepare for death by making out a will and final arrangements
- Loses interest in their personal appearance
- Increases their use or alcohol or drugs
Be Aware of Feelings
Many people at some time in their lives think about committing suicide. For most, the crisis is temporary. Others perceive their dilemma as inescapable and feel an utter loss of control. Often suicidal people believe they can't:
- Stop the pain
- Make the sadness go away
- Think clearly
- See a future without pain
- Make decisions
- See themselves as worthwhile
- See any way out
- Get someone's attention
- Sleep, eat, or work
- Seem to get control
- Get out of depression
What To Do
Here are some ways to help someone who is threatening suicide:
- Be direct. Talk openly and matter-of-factly about suicide.
- Be non-judgmental. Don't debate whether suicide is right or wrong, or feelings are good or bad. Don't lecture on the value of life.
- Be willing to listen. Allow expressions of feelings. Accept the feelings.
- Get involved. Become available. Show interest and support.
- Don't dare him or her to do it.
- Don't act shocked. This will put distance between you.
- Don't be sworn to secrecy. Seek support.
- Offer hope that alternatives are available but do not offer glib reassurance.
- Take action. Remove means.
- Get help from persons or agencies specializing in crisis intervention and suicide prevention.
Who To Contact:
A community mental health agency
A private therapist or counselor
A school counselor or psychologist
A family physician
A suicide prevention or crisis center
OSU Counseling and Consultation Service 292-5766
OSU Faculty and Staff Assistance 292-4472
Additional Places To Contact For More Information Regarding Suicide
| National Organization for People of Color Against Suicide
PO Box 125 |
American Association of Suicidology (AAS)
421 Connecticut Ave NW |
| The Organization for Attempters and Survivors of Suicide in Interfaith Services (OASSIS)
4541 Burlington Place NW |
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)
120 Wall Street 22nd FL |
| SA\VE-Suicide Awareness\Voices of Education
7317 Cahill Road Suite 207 |
Public Health 999 3rd Ave, Ste. 1200 |
| Suicide Prevention Advocacy Network USA (SPAN USA)
5034 Odins Way |
The Compassionate Friends (for parents who have lost a child)
PO Box 3696 |
| Yellow Ribbon Suicide Prevention Program
PO Box 664 |
Suicide Prevention Resource Center
SPRC, Education Development Center, Inc. |