Someone I know is in crisis

Looking out for friends and loved ones is an important part of preventing suicide. You can call the Lifeline to speak with a crisis worker on behalf of someone you are concerned about. The crisis workers have access to local resources and can help you identify ways to get help to your loved ones. So call 1-800-273-TALK today to help save a life.

Here Are Some Other 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 nonjudgmental. Dont debate whether suicide is right or wrong, or whether feelings are good or bad. Dont lecture on the value of life.
• Get involved. Become available. Show interest and support.
• Dont dare him or her to do it.
• Dont act shocked. This will put distance between you.
• Dont 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 completing suicide. Most decide to live because they eventually come to realize that the crisis is temporary and death is permanent. On the 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 thoughts they experience:

• Cant stop the pain.
• Cant think clearly.
• Cant make decisions.
• Cant see any way out.
• Cant sleep, eat, or work.
• Cant get out of depression.
• Cant make the sadness go away.
• Cant see a future without pain.
• Cant see themselves as worthwhile.
• Cant get someones attention.
• Cant seem to get control.

If you experience these feelings, get help! If someone you know exhibits these symptoms, offer help!

Download the Lifeline wallet card to keep with you or give out:

• English language wallet cards [PDF]
• Spanish language wallet card [PDF]

* This material was developed by the American Association of Suicidology.