Suicide is preventable, and as a community we can help save lives. Because many people may feel suicidal at some point in their lives, we can learn and use these techniques to help them.
If someone tells you they are going to commit suicide, take their words seriously and get
help immediately. Even if they tell you to keep it secret, it is better to anger a friend than
to lose them forever.
Identify. Ask them directly if they are thinking about committing suicide.
Intervene. If they are actually attempting suicide in your presence, use any
means necessary to safely stop them and call 911.
Connect. Show that you understand that their pain is real.
Listen carefully. Just be there and let the person know that you care. Do not tell
them how they should feel or what they should do. Just express your desire to
support and help understand what they are feeling.
Seek help. Your friend’s safety is the number one priority. Talk with them about
seeking help. Let them know they can a hotline or talk to a doctor, school
counselor, or clergy.
Attend. Do not leave them alone.
Here are some of the most common myths about suicide.
FALSE: Talking about suicide may give someone the idea.
The opposite is true. Talking about suicide and discussing it openly is one of the most
helpful things you can do.
FALSE: Once people decide to die by suicide, there is nothing you can do to stop
them.
Suicide can be prevented. Most people who are suicidal do not want to die, they just
want to stop the pain.
FALSE: People who attempt suicide and survive will not attempt suicide again.
People who attempt suicide and survive will often times make additional attempts.