 The
CSI Task Force
Understanding
and Helping the Suicidal Person
Be
Aware of the Warning Signs
There is no typical
suicide victim. It happens to young and old, rich and poor. Fortunately
there are some common warning signs which, when acted upon, can
save lives. Here are some signs to look for:
A
suicidal person might be suicidal if he or she:
- Talks about committing suicide
- Has trouble eating or sleeping
- Experiences drastic changes in behavior
- Withdraws from friends and/or social activities
- Loses interest in hobbies, work, school, etc.
- Prepares for death by making out a will and final arrangements
- Gives away prized possessions
- Has attempted suicide before
- Takes unnecessary risks
- Has had recent severe losses
- Is preoccupied with death and dying
- Loses interest in their personal appearance
- Increases their use of alcohol or drugs
What
To Do
Here
are some ways to be helpful to someone who is threatening suicide:
- Be direct. Talk openly and matter-of-factly about suicide.
- Be willing to listen. Allow expressions of feelings. Accept
the feelings.
- 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.
- Get involved. Become available. Show interest and support.
- Don't dare him or her to do it.
- Don't act shocked. This will put distance between you.
- Don't be sworn to secrecy. Seek support.
- Offer hope that alternatives are available but do not offer
glib reassurance.
- Take action. Remove means, such as guns or stockpiled pills.
- Get help from persons or agencies specializing in crisis intervention
and suicide prevention.
Be Aware of
Feelings
Many people at some time
in their lives think about committing suicide. Most decide to
live, because they eventually come to realize that the crisis
is temporary and death is permanent. On other hand, people having
a crisis sometimes perceive their dilemma as inescapable and feel
an utter loss of control. These are some of the feelings and things
they experience:
- Can't stop the pain
- Can't think clearly
- Can't make decisions
- Can't see any way out
- Can't sleep, eat or work
- Can't get out of depression
- Can't make the sadness go away
- Can't see a future without pain
- Can't see themselves as worthwhile
- Can't get someone's attention
- Can't seem to get control
If
you experience these feelings, get help! If someone you know exhibits
these symptoms, offer help!
Contact:
- A community mental health agency
- A private therapist or counselor
- A school counselor or psychologist
- A family physician
- A suicide prevention or crisis center
The above information
was adapted from the American Association of Suicidology. American
Association of Suicidology
If
you or someone you know needs help, call the National Suicide
Hotline at 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433)
In
Lafayette County - Contact Lafayette County Human Services at
608-776-4800 or in an emergency contact the 608-776-4848
Return
to the CSI Homepage
Return
to the suicide priority page
Return
to the program priorities page
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