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Identifying and Responding to Suicide Risk

Every year, thousands of individuals lose their lives to suicide. It is the third leading cause of death in adolescents in the United States, and the second leading cause of death among college students. 

In most instances, risk of suicide can be detected by those close to the individual, if they are aware of the warning signs.

 

Warning Signs

Verbal threats such as “You’d be better off without me” or “Maybe I won’t be around anymore…”

Expression of hopelessness and/or helplessness

Previous suicide attempts

Daring and risk-taking behavior

Personality changes (e.g., withdrawal, aggression, moodiness)

Depression

Giving away prized possessions

Lack of interest in the future

 

What to do if a Friend or Relative is Suicidal

Trust your instincts and believe that the person may attempt suicide.

Talk with the person about your concerns and show that you care and want to help.

Ask the person direct questions.  The more detailed their suicide plan, the greater the immediate risk.

Remember that the most important thing is to listen.

Get professional help –even If the person resists.

Do not leave the person alone.

Do not swear to secrecy.

Do not act shocked or judge the person.

Do not counsel the person. 

To learn more about detecting and responding to suicide risk among teens, visit the Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide at http://www.sptsnj.org/

Getting Immediate Help

If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, call First Call for Help at (509) 838-4428 or the National Suicide Helpline at 1-800-SUICIDE.