Suicide is a serious and deadly problem. It affects people from all backgrounds, ages, ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientations and income levels.
Prevention strategies that are proven to reduce suicide include gatekeeper training and education, suicide screening, means restriction and responsible media coverage. Social programs that foster connectedness also prevent suicide.
Know the Warning Signs
Throughout adolescence, teens experience major physical, social and emotional changes that can increase their vulnerability to suicide. These factors include mental health problems (depression, bipolar disorder or schizophrenia), a family history of suicide, drug or alcohol abuse, chronic pain or illness and social isolation. Life stressors such as severe financial issues, legal troubles, an event that causes disgrace or shame and interpersonal conflicts can also contribute to suicidal behavior.
NIMH has identified warning signs that can help identify those at risk. These verbal and behavioral clues include dramatic mood changes (depression or anger), a focus on death or dying, writing about suicide, seeking out lethal objects like guns, pills or knives and, most importantly, hopelessness—the belief that nothing can be changed and there is no point in living. These signs may be especially concerning if they are new, increase in severity or seem related to a painful loss, change or event. They can be a sign that someone is in immediate danger and needs emergency care.
Be Proactive
Taking responsibility for your actions, rather than leaving them up to chance, is what it means to be proactive. As Covey writes in his book, “Begin with the end in mind.”
If someone expresses suicidal thoughts or behavior, it’s important to take them seriously. Whether it’s talking about wanting to die or searching online for ways to kill yourself, any sign of suicidal intent is worth investigating.
Being proactive is also about keeping in touch with the people you care about. Whether it’s a phone call, text message or visit to the house, staying connected is an important step in helping prevent suicide. In fact, research has shown that the risk of suicide death decreases when a person is followed up with after a suicide attempt or when they are at-risk. This is particularly true if the access to lethal methods of suicide is restricted. It may also include connecting people at-risk to mental health professionals, support groups and programs that promote a healthy lifestyle.
Be There for Your Friends
If you think a friend is in danger, the first thing to do is ask if they’re thinking of suicide. Ask in a non-judgmental and open way. Then listen and care. Suicidal thoughts are often a sign that a person is in emotional pain, and a caring response can save their life.
If they say yes, ask if they have a plan and how they would accomplish it. Be sure to reduce access to lethal means.
Be present, whether it’s over the phone or in person, and stay engaged over the long term. Studies show that increasing the amount of time people spend with others, especially those suffering from depression, has a powerful preventative effect. Also, make it a point to regularly check in and see how they’re doing. This can help spot a crisis before it happens and keep a friend from becoming isolated. It’s also a great way to encourage healthy lifestyle habits like exercise, sleep, and eating well.
Don’t Be Afraid to Talk
Talking about suicide is important because it helps people know that they can seek help. It also lets people know that they are not alone, and that there is hope for recovery.
If someone you know is showing warning signs, ask them if they are considering suicide. Be prepared to listen without judgment, and be supportive. Encourage them to get expert help by calling a crisis line or getting an appointment with their health care provider or mental health professional. Remove or lock-up any potential means of suicide, such as pills, razors and firearms, if you can safely do so.
Increasing connectedness, removing access to lethal items and providing follow up support has been shown to reduce the risk of suicide in people who are at risk. For more information on these strategies and other best practices, visit our LIVE LIFE resource center and the AFSP website.