Here are some ways to be helpful to someone who is
threatening suicide or engaging in suicidal behaviors:
• Be aware –
learn the risk factors and warning signs for suicide and where to get help
• Be direct –
talk openly and matter-of-factly about suicide, what you have observed, and
what your concerns are regarding his/her well-being
• Be willing
to listen – allow expression of feelings, accept the feelings, and be patient
• Be
non-judgmental – don’t debate whether suicide is right or wrong or whether the
person’s feelings are good or bad; don’t give a lecture on the value of life
• Be
available – show interest, understanding, and support
• Don’t dare
him/her to engage in suicidal behaviors.
• Don’t act
shocked
• Don’t ask
“why”
• Don’t be
sworn to secrecy
• Offer hope
that alternatives are available – but don’t offer reassurances that any one
alternative will turn things around in the near future.
• Take action
– remove lethal means of self-harm such as pills, ropes, firearms, and alcoholor other drugs
• Get help
from others with more experience and expertise
• Be actively
involved in encouraging the person to see a mental health professional as soon
as possible and ensure that an appointment is made.
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