By Stephen Ornes

Where To Go for Help

By Stephen Ornes

• If you feel suicidal or someone you know admits to having thoughts of suicide, dial 911.

• For anyone in a suicidal crisis, or anyone concerned about someone else who is, the telephone number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255). Callers are immediately connected to a local crisis center, and the phones are staffed around the clock.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Symptoms of suicide include: hopelessness, uncontrolled anger, acting recklessly or engaging in risky activities, feeling trapped, increased alcohol or drug use, withdrawing from friends and family, disruption of sleep patterns, and dramatic mood changes.

The American Association of Suicidology recommends the following ways to help a person with suicidal intentions:

• Be direct. Talk openly and matter-of-factly about suicide.
• Be willing to listen. Allow expressions of feelings. Accept the feelings.
• Be nonjudgmental. Don’t debate whether suicide is right or wrong, or whether feelings are good or bad. Don’t lecture on the value of life.
• Get involved. Become available. Show interest and support.
• Don’t dare him or her to do it.
• Don’t act shocked. This will put distance between you.
• Don’t be sworn to secrecy. Seek support.
• Offer hope that alternatives are available, but do not offer glib reassurance.
• Take action. Remove means, such as guns or stockpiled pills.
• Get help from people or agencies specializing in crisis intervention and suicide prevention.