This is National Suicide Prevention Week

What Are The Warning Signs?

The following warning signs were derived as a consensus from a meeting of internationally-renowned clinical researchers held under the auspices of AAS in Wellesley, MA in November 2003.

A person at risk for suicidal behavior most often will exhibit warning signs such as:

• Expressed or communicated ideation
  
• Threatening to hurt or kill him/herself, or talking of wanting to
  hurt or kill him/herself.
  
• Looking for ways to kill him/herself by seeking access to
  firearms, available pills, or other means.
  
• Talking or writing about death, dying or suicide, when these
  actions are out of the ordinary.
  
• Increased substance (alcohol or drug) use.
  
• Feeling no reason for living; no sense of purpose in life
  
• Anxiety, agitation, inability to sleep or sleeping all the time.
  
• Feeling trapped (like there's no way out)
  
• Feelings of hopelessness
  
• Withdrawal from friends, family and society
  
• Rage, uncontrolled anger, seeking revenge
  
• Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities, seemingly without
  thinking.
  
• Dramatic mood changes

How To Help

The following is also from The American Association of Suicidology:

WAYS TO BE HELPFUL TO SOMEONE WHO IS THREATENING SUICIDE

1. Be aware. Learn the warning signs.
2. Get involved. Become available. Show interest and support.
3. Ask if he/she is thinking about suicide.
4. Be direct. Talk openly and freely about suicide.
5. Be willing to listen. Allow for expression of feelings. Accept the feelings.
6. 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.
7. Don't dare him/her to do it.
8. Don't give advice by making decisions for someone else to tell them to behave differently.
9. Don't ask ‘why'. This encourages defensiveness.
10. Offer empathy, not sympathy.
11. Don't act shocked. This creates distance.
12. Don't be sworn to secrecy. Seek support.
13. Offer hope that alternatives are available, do not offer glib reassurance; it only proves you don't understand.
14. Take action! Remove means! Get help from individuals or agencies specializing in crisis intervention and suicide prevention.

BE AWARE!

Where To Find Help:

Call toll free 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (1-800-273-TALK (8255)

And also:

1800-784-2433

1800-799-4889

For email support:  Suicide.org email support 

When suicidal intent or risk is detected early, lives can be saved!  Whether you are experiencing suicidal thoughts yourself or you are helping a loved one or friend, please do not be afraid to reach out.  Talk to someone.  It could save your life or someone you love.