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What to Do
If you see possible warning signs of suicide...
- It's okay to ask the person, "Do you ever feel so badly that
you think of suicide?" Don't worry about planting the idea in
someone's head. Suicidal thoughts are common with depressive
illnesses, although not all people have them. If a person has been
thinking of suicide, he will be relieved and grateful that you were
willing to be so open and nonjudgmental. It shows a person you truly
care and take him seriously.
- If you get a yes to your question, question the individual further.
Ask, "Do you have a plan?" If yes, ask, "Do you know
when you would do it?" "Do you know when?" (today,
next week?) "Do you have access to what you would use?"
Asking these questions will give you an idea if the person is in
immediate danger. If you feel she is, do not leave her alone! A
suicidal person must see a doctor or psychiatrist immediately. You
may have to take her to the nearest hospital emergency room or call
911. Always take thoughts of or plans for suicide seriously.
- Never keep a plan for suicide a secret. Don't worry about breaking
a bond of friendship at this point. Friendships can be fixed. And
never call a person's bluff, or try to minimize his problems by
telling him he has everything to live for or how hurt his family
would be. This will only increase his guilt and feelings of
hopelessness. He needs to be reassured that there is help that what
he is feeling is treatable, and that his suicidal feelings are
temporary.
- If you feel the person isn't in immediate danger, you can say
things like, "I can tell you're really hurting", and
"I care about you and will do my best to help you." Then
follow through - help her find a doctor or a mental health
professional. Be by her side when she makes that first phone call,
or go along with her to his first appointment. It's not a good idea
to leave it up to a person to get help on her own. A supportive
person can mean so much to someone who's in pain.
In order to save lives, it's critical that we recognize the symptoms
of these biological diseases that cause suicide. There is still
stigma associated with these illnesses, which can prevent people from
getting help. Your willingness to talk about depression and suicide
with a friend, family member, or co-worker can go a long way in
reducing stigma. Education is the key to understanding the tragedy of
suicide that, in many cases, can be prevented.
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