What does it look like when someone may have thoughts of suicide and what to do?
Warning Signs- People may talk about…
- Killing themselves
- Feeling hopeless
- Having no reason to live
- Being a burden to others
- Feeling trapped
- Unbearable pain
Warning Signs- Things you may be aware of
- Any previous suicide attempt
- Obtaining or researching lethal means
- Co-occurring mental health disorder
- Putting personal affairs in order/giving away prized possessions
- Sudden interest or disinterest in religion
- Drug or alcohol abuse, or relapse after a period of recovery
- Change in Behavior -anger, aggression, irritability, crying
Warning Signs- Things that might be happening
- Being fired or being expelled from school
- Loss or anticipated loss of freedom
- A recent unwanted move
- Financial concerns
- Diagnosis of a serious or terminal illness
- Fear of becoming a burden
- Pressure to meet expectations of self and/or others
- Loss of any major relationship, especially if by death or suicide
What to do?
- If in doubt, don’t wait: directly ask about suicide.
- Give them time in a private setting to share
Directly ask the question
- “Are you hurting so much that you’ve been thinking about ending your life?”
- “Are you thinking about killing yourself?”
- “It sounds like you are really struggling. I wonder - Are you thinking about suicide?”
Resources to consider
- College Counseling Center: (315) 267-2330 Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- After Hours: Contact University Police if safety is a concern: (315) 267-2222
- St. Lawrence County Crisis Helpline - Citizen Advocates: (315) 265-2422
- Text 741741 to text with a licensed counselor 24/7