Suicide is NOT the answer

Monday, May 12th @ 9:50 AMpost viewed 177 times

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For those going through it right now and need someone to talk to please call:  

CrisisLink Answers:
(703) 527-4077

CrisisLink Regional Hotline
1-800-SUICIDE

National Hopeline Network
1-800-273-TALK

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
1-866-FOR-LIGHT

Darkness-to-Light child sexual abuse helpline

Recognize the Signs Signs of Suicidal Behavior Things People Might Say…

• "I'm tired of life. I can't go on."
• "My family would be better off without me."
• "Who cares if I'm dead anyway?"
• "I just want out."
• "I won't be around much longer."
• "Soon you won't have to worry about me."
• "I wish I were dead."
• "I'm going to end it all."
• "I just want to die."
• "I'm going to kill myself."
• "If….doesn't happen, I'm going to kill myself."

Things People Might Do…

• Get a gun or stockpile pills
• Give away prized possessions
• Take more impulsive risks
• Cut themselves or other gestures of self-harm
• Neglect their appearance
• Abuse alcohol and/or drugs
• Isolate themselves/run away/drop out of school
• Show a dramatic change of mood

 

What To Say / Do... What to Say

• "Have you been so unhappy lately that you're thinking life isn't worth living?"
• "Do you sometimes wish you could just go to sleep and not wake up?"
• "You seem really miserable…are you feeling suicidal?"
• "Have you been thinking about killing yourself?"

What To Do

If the answer to any of the questions, above, is "yes" or "maybe"…

• Don't EVER be sworn to secrecy. It's better to have an angry friend than a dead one. ("I'm really worried about you. I can't keep a deadly secret.")
• Contract for safety ("Can you promise to stay safe until after class, etc.?")
• Help the person brainstorm an immediate plan to get help. ("How can we get you the help that you need to stay safe and get better?")
• Seek responsible adult assistance (with or without the person's agreement).
• Encourage the person to call CrisisLink at the number shown at the left, or call 1-800-273-TALK or 1-800-273-TALK -- or call yourself. Help is available 24/7/365!