Warning Signs

If you, or someone you know, may be contemplating suicide...

When someone is severely depressed and possibly contemplating suicide, there are generally warning signals which can detect clues in behavior:

• Giving away possessions
• Talking about not being around anymore
• Acting very sad and depressed

If you suspect someone you know may attempt suicide:

• Do not ignore warning signs.
• Find a time privately to tell the person know what clues you've observed and that you are concerned that he or she might be thinking of giving up on life.
• Stay calm and listen. Get your friend to talk to you. If you are right, the person most likely will be relieved that someone noticed and cared. Mentioning the word suicide will not make someone suicidal.
• Talk to your friend. It provides a link of human contact and hope.
• Ask your friend how he/she feels. Try gentle questions such as, "You seem as if you've been kind of down. Are you?"

If your friend tells you that he/she has been feeling hopeless or sees no solution in sight for a problem, show that you care. Listen and be supportive, but realize that your friend needs help from a professional.

• Remind the person that suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem.
• Reassure him/her that many people think about suicide, but never actually do it.

If your friend refuses to get profssional help, you get help. Contact the person's family. There's a good chance that the seriousness of your friend's problems may have gone undetected by those who care, and someone needs to be informed. Be honest with the person if you plan to call a family member or friend. Make the call in front of him/her so that he/she won't wonder what you are saying. You are not betraying your friend, you're trying to help.

• Ask the person to agree to postpone the decision for awhile. In return, you might offer to accompany him/her to find support or help.
• Know the services available in your area, or contact someone who does.
• Contact your  mental health center, mental health association, or hospital emergency room.

Remember, you cannot make someone choose to live. You are not responsible for the person's life, but you can give support and possibly insight into other choices.

If you or someone you know is in immediate crisis, please call 1-800-273-8255.

Distributed by The Link Counseling Center, 348 Mt. Vernon Hwy. NE, Atlanta, GA 30328 404-256-9797 www.thelink.org