There are many ways we can help friends and family who are experiencing suicidal thoughts. Suicidal thoughts occur frequently and are a sign that support is needed. They often indicate underlying mental health issues, which can be treated. To help a loved one:
Know the Facts
Suicide is the second leading cause of death in people age 10 through 34, the fourth leading cause of death for those age 34 through 54, and the tenth leading cause of death in the U.S. 46% of those who die by suicide have a diagnosed mental health condition, and 90% experience symptoms of a mental health condition. 78% of people who die by suicide are male. 2SLGBTQQIAA+ youth are 4x as likely to attempt suicide as heterosexual youth. Transgender adults are 12x more likely to attempt suicide than the general population. Suicide rates in the U.S. are high among American Indian/Alaska Native and Hispanic white people. It is the leading cause of death for those who are locally jailed.
Look for Warning Signs
Comments like “I want to disappear,” “I wish I wasn’t alive,” and “Nothing matters” can be early signs. Other signs include: talking about death/wanting to die, increased use of substances, aggression, agitation, rage, stating no reason to live, talking about being a burden, researching ways to die, sleeping too little or too much, changes in mood, including mood swings, impulsive or dangerous behaviors, withdrawal from friends, family, and previously enjoyed activities, losing interest in future plans, collecting/saving pills, buying a weapon, giving away belongings, saying goodbye, and organizing to “tie up loose ends.”
Know the Risk Factors
Some risk factors for suicide include substance use, intoxication, family history of suicide, recent death by suicide of a friend, family member, or acquaintance, access to weapons, trauma or abuse history, being bullied, social isolation, recent tragedy or loss, prior attempts, barriers or stigmas preventing the individual from requesting help, and chronic stress.
Ask & Listen with Support – Not Judgment
Given the trepidation around suicide, it is not surprising that our first inclination may be to avoid discussion about it. However, research shows that kindly and gently asking someone about their suicidal thoughts helps to reduce them. Ask direct questions. It is okay and important to directly ask someone if they are thinking of suicide. Ask if they experience thoughts of suicide, have a plan, and have intent to act. Speak with openness and warmth. People tend to feel more hopeful, and less suicidal when someone listens empathically and without judgment. Do not argue or make statements that suggest disapproval. Do not make threats, raise your voice, or retreat. Instead, express compassion, care, and concern. Listen and validate.
Reduce Access
When you ask a suicidal friend or family member about their suicidal thoughts, ask if they’ve thought aboutFind out how they might harm themselves. Then, remove, lock away, and prevent access to anything they are considering using to harm themselves. For children, strongly consider open doors with locks removed, video monitors, and safety locks (e.g., for knives, scissors, razors, and medications). Know where your children are and who they are with, especially if you have safety concerns.
Support
One of the best ways you can support a suicidal friend or family member is to help them reduce their isolation. Help them connect with other friends, family members, community members, and mental health providers. Help them engage in activities they have tended to enjoy. And, once you start talking, keep talking. Follow up, check-in, and show a willingness to listen and support. If you are a parent of a child experiencing suicidal thoughts, seek parenting support for yourself, and therapy for your child. Medication management may also be beneficial. If you are suicidal, please reach out for therapeutic help.
Create a Crisis Plan
In an urgent situation, engaging in therapeutic and psychiatric support is an excellent step. You can also help your friend or family member create a crisis/safety plan. This should include trusted people to contact, crisis hotlines, and quick access to emergency resources. The safety plan should be accessed whether an individual feels unsafe due to suicidal thoughts. In an urgent situation, as a friend or family member, you should call for emergency support if those with suicidal thoughts express intent or share an actionable plan. If you are unsure of the risk, it is always best to access emergency support.
Stay Present
Avoid leaving a suicidal person alone. If the person expresses intent or a plan, stay with them, or make sure another safe person does so, until crisis support can be accessed. If you have concerns about safety, call 911 or take the individual to the nearest ER.
There is Hope
Suicidal thoughts can be treated and can improve. Protective factors include open communication and feelings of connection. If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one, please do not hesitate to reach out to a mental health provider for support.
Resources for this article:
https://www.ami.org/get-involved/awareness-events/suicide-prevention-awareness-month
https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/promote-national-suicide-prevention-month/
