How to Prevent Someone from Attempting Suicide: Recognizing Signs and Taking Action

To prevent someone from attempting suicide, it's crucial to recognize the warning signs and take immediate actions. Here are detailed steps and resources to help:

Recognizing Warning Signs

Warning signs that someone might be contemplating suicide include:
  • Talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself.
  • Looking for a way to kill oneself, such as searching online or buying a gun.
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  • Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.
  • Talking about feeling trapped, a burden, or in unbearable pain.
  • Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.
  • Acting anxious, agitated, or behaving recklessly.
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  • Sleeping too little or too much.
  • Withdrawing or isolating themselves.
  • Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.
  • Displaying extreme mood swings.
  • Giving away possessions.
  • Saying goodbye to family and friends.

Immediate Actions to Prevent Suicide

  1. Ask Directly: If you suspect someone is suicidal, ask them directly if they are thinking about killing themselves. This will not push them to attempt suicide. Ask questions like, "Are you thinking about ending your life?" or "Do you have a plan for how and when you want to end your life?".
  2. Listen Without Judgment: Show that you care by listening to their feelings without judgment. Allow them to express their emotions freely.
  3. Remove Access to Means: If possible, remove any objects that could be used in a suicide attempt, such as firearms, medications, or sharp objects.
  4. Stay with Them: If the person is in immediate danger, stay with them or ensure they are in a safe place with another caring person. Do not leave them alone.
  5. Call for Help: Contact emergency services (911 in the U.S.) or a crisis hotline immediately. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 and can be reached by calling or texting 988.

Professional Help and Resources

  • Crisis Hotlines: The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (Call or Text 988), Crisis Text Line (Text HOME to 741741), and the Veterans Crisis Line (Call 988 and press 1) are available for immediate support.
  • Mental Health Professionals: Seek help from psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, or counselors. They can provide therapy, diagnoses, and prescribe medication if necessary.
  • Support Groups: Joining a mental health support group can help reduce feelings of isolation and provide peer support.
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Many employers offer EAPs that provide confidential mental health services.
  • School Resources: If you are a student, check if your school's health center offers mental health services.

Long-Term Strategies

  • Foster a Supportive Environment: Create a supportive and non-judgmental environment where individuals feel safe to express their feelings.
  • Improve Access to Mental Health Care: Ensure that individuals have easy access to mental health care services.
  • Address Stigma: Work to reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues and seeking help.
  • Promote Safety: Encourage practices that promote safety, such as lethal means safety (e.g., securing firearms).
By recognizing the warning signs, taking immediate actions, and utilizing available resources, you can help prevent someone from attempting suicide.