Warning Signs to watch for:
• Previous suicide attempt
• Threats of suicide or self-harm, talk of what death would be like
• Withdrawal from friends and family, isolation
• Giving away personal, meaningful objects
• Depression, hopelessness,
• Alcohol or drug abuse
• Lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities
• Recent Loss
How to Help:
Step 1: BELIEVE what you are seeing, hearing and feeling. Trust your instincts. If they are talking about suicide, even in a joking manner, take them seriously.
Step 2: ASK if they have had thoughts of suicide. Be as direct as possible so they know exactly what you are asking them. You could say: “Things seem really rough for you lately and I’m a bit worried about how you’re doing with everything. Do you ever think of ending your life?”
Step 3: LISTEN to how they are feeling and whatever they want to share with you. Listen without judgement and be understanding of the pain that they are in. You may not understand their decision to consider suicide, but you can understand that they are in extreme pain. Just by listening you are showing support.
Step 4: ASSESS the RISK of suicide, by listening to what they are telling you. What are their thoughts? Do they have a plan? Do they have access to the means to carry out their plan? If they have the plan and the means to carry it out, they are at an extremely high risk and must receieve help immediately.
Step 5: GET HELP for them and for yourself. Ask them who they trust to share this with other than you. If they can't think of anyone, you can suggest someone you trust. Then you can go together to see this person. This way there is another person involved to make sure someone is always available to help your friend or loved one, and you now have someone you can talk to about the stress and pressure you are now under. Make sure to follow through with a health care professional such as a doctor, psychologist, counsellor, or mental health clinic.
Printable Handout
CLICK HERE for a printable handout (.pdf) of warning signs, what to do and how to get help.
Statistics
For the most current statistics, please refer to the following links.
http://www.suicideinfo.ca/csp/go.aspx?tabid=146
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