September is Suicide Awareness Month

Myth: Asking about suicide will put the idea in the person's mind.

Myth: Someone who talks about suicide isn't really serious.

Fact: Talking about suicide may be a way for the person to indicate just how bad they are feeling.

If someone is having suicidal feelings, it is vital to check whether the person has definite intentions to take their life, or whether the person has been having more vague suicidal thoughts.

Ask directly
"Are you thinking about killing yourself?"

"Are you having thoughts of suicide?"

If the answer to either of these is yes, then ask if the person has a plan

"Have you decided how you are going to kill yourself?"

"Have you decided when you would do it?"

"Have you collected the things you need to carry out your plan?"

A yes to any of these questions is a risk of suicide, and this person's safety should be the main concern.

A higher level of planning indicates a more serious risk. The absence of a plan does not ensure a person's safety.

All thoughts of suicide must be taken seriously.

If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide, risk factors, or has talked about a suicide plan, please reach out to the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, Crisis Text Line, or a trusted friend/family member involved in the Crisis Plan.

In cases of emergency, please call 911.

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