I'm worried about a friend. How do I help them?
Know the signs
- Impulsive behaviors or being more irritated than usual
- Not functioning like their usual selves (i.e., change in habits of how they dress, general appearance, eating or sleep habits)
- Talking about feelings of loneliness or despair
- They've gotten negative about life
- They are more irritable than usual
- Excessive worry
- They are so anxious they can't relax
- Trouble concentrating
- Their mind seems to be somewhere else
- Substance misuse
Question
Question the person about suicide. Do they have thoughts? Feelings? Plans? Don’t be afraid to ask.
Persuade
Persuade the person to get help. Listen carefully. Then say, “Let me help.” Or, “Come with me to find help.”
Refer
Refer for help. Contact any adult. Tell a counselor, a teacher, a parent or submit a tip on SafeUt. https://safeut.org/students
Important things to remember when helping...
- Realize someone might be suicidal.
- each out. Asking the suicide question DOES NOT increase risk.
- Listen. Talking things out can save a life.
- Don’t try to do everything yourself. Get others involved.
- Don’t promise secrecy and don’t worry about being disloyal.
- If persuasion fails, call your mental health center, local hotline or emergency services.
- If you believe someone is the process of making a suicide attempt, call 911.