National Suicide Prevention Week
In honor of #NationalSuicidePreventionWeek. Today, we're following up last week's post with some advice on how to help someone who is contemplating suicide.
If you think someone you love may be considering suicide, you should ALWAYS take them seriously. Plan a time to sit down and talk about how they are feeling, and follow these four steps to help it go smoothly:
1️⃣ Ask them directly, "Have you ever thought about suicide?" or "Are you thinking about hurting yourself?" Many people are afraid that asking will give their loved one ideas, but you will NOT put the idea into their head simply by asking.
2️⃣ If the person says they are contemplating suicide, take them seriously. Help them remove any lethal means from their surroundings.
3️⃣ Stay with the person until you can call for help. Encourage them to seek treatment or talk to their doctor or therapist. Make them feel supported and loved, but avoid giving advice, minimizing their problems, or debating the meaning of life.
4️⃣ Get help. Call 911 or the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Operators will talk you through the steps of finding the nearest emergency room or crisis mental health services.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or text "HOME" to 741-741.
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