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A loved one has made an attempt

Are you concerned about a friend or a loved one?

Mental Health is an issue that spreads across all demographics. If you notice any changes, especially any warning sides, that indicate suicide in your friends or loved ones, you are not left helpless. There are things you can do to  help.

Know what to look out for

Part of being prepared to help someone in a suicidal state means knowing the warning signs. When a close friend suddenly starts changing their sleeping habits, general attitude, and even losing interest in some of their favorite activities, this can be a clue that something is wrong. Review the warning signs so you can recognize when someone needs help.

How to Help

Start by asking questions. See if you can bring up their lives and if they start to open up. Some examples might be:

  • How are you coping with what’s been happening in your life?
  • Do you ever feel like just giving up?
  • Are you thinking about dying?
  • Are you thinking about hurting yourself?
  • Are you thinking about suicide?
  • Have you ever thought about suicide before, or tried to harm yourself before?
  • Have you thought about how or when you’d do it?
  • Do you have access to weapons or things that can be used as weapons to harm yourself?

Be sensitive while asking questions like these, but also be direct. Try to avoid phrasing questions in a way that makes someone hesitate to answer you truthfully, such as “You’re not thinking of hurting yourself, are you?”. This makes it seem like the person can only answer with a “no” and they won’t be able to open up to you.

Talking about suicide can seem scary, as it is a very serious topic. However, when someone talks about what they are experiencing, it often brings relief and helps ease the pain they’ve been feeling.

Offer Support

Encourage your friend or loved one to get help. Speaking to a professional therapist and counselor is very beneficial. Offer to help them get assistance and if you do, make sure you are absolutely following through.

Suicide Can Be Prevented

Reach4Hope

Interested in one of our Suicide Prevention classes? Fill out the form below to get class times and information.

If you are in a crisis, please call 911 or call or text the Lifeline at 988