Suicide is preventable if you know the warning signs, what to say, and who to contact for help. This is why this year’s World Suicide Prevention Day theme is “Connect, Communicate, Care.” Over 800,000 people die by suicide worldwide each year. Someone you know might be in crisis if he or she:
- Directly expresses wanting to die.
- Talks about feeling hopeless or trapped, having no reason to live, or being a burden to others.
- Isolates himself or herself and withdraws from relationships.
- Experiences sleep problems, mood and behavior swings, anxiety, frustration, or recklessness.
If you suspect someone is suicidal, take action by addressing your concerns directly, while also staying calm and empathetic. Try saying:
- “I noticed you’ve mentioned a few times how hopeless you feel. Let’s talk more about that.”
- “You don’t seem as happy or engaged as you used to be. And you spend most of your time alone in your room. This has me concerned.”
- “Are you thinking of ending your life?”
- “Do you have thoughts of hurting yourself?”
- “I’m worried because I care so much about you and want you to know help is available. Let’s figure this out together.”
While someone’s pain might not always be obvious, knowing the signs and feeling confident you can find the words to address your concerns is essential. If you’re a parent worried about your child’s or teen’s suicidal thoughts or behaviors, know what to look for. And if your children were exposed to a family member’s suicide attempt, talk with them about it.
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) website offers good information and helpful resources. Also, Military OneSource offers support and services to improve your friend, colleague, or loved one’s mental health and well-being. If you feel someone is experiencing a potentially life-threatening problem, contact the Military Crisis Line online or call 800-273-8255 and press “1,” or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline online or by phone at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). The Psychological Health Center of Excellence (PHCoE) also has a 24/7 Psychological Health Resource Center featuring a hotline, email, chat, and phone number. And visit HPRC’s Mental Health page. In an emergency, please dial 911.