Suicide Prevention

If you struggle with suicidal thoughts, know that you are not alone. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 12.2 million American adults think about suicide each year.

Thoughts of self-harm or suicide are very distressing. You may feel out of control and wonder where they are coming from. Intrusive thoughts do not always represent your intentions or desires, but when you have them, you may not trust yourself or your actions.

When Is It Time to Call?

It can be hard to know when to call for help. Do not wait if you are not sure. Warning signs of a suicidal or mental health crisis include:

  • Not being able to take care of daily tasks, such as personal hygiene

  • Dramatic mood changes

  • Uncontrollable anger

  • Feeling trapped, like you have no way out of a situation

  • Pacing and restlessness

  • Paranoid feelings or feeling out of touch with what is going on around you

  • Withdrawal from friends and family

  • Urges to harm yourself or others

  • Thoughts that you would be better off dead

Staying Safe Through a Mental Health Crisis

What To Say To Friends

Are you feeling unsure about asking a friend for help? Maybe you feel awkward or embarrassed and don’t know what to say. A good friend will be grateful that you reached out. They want you to stay safe. The best thing to do is simply start a conversation.

Try saying:

Can you give me a call? I’m feeling alone and not safe. I need some help.

This is hard for me to say, but I am having some thoughts that are scaring me. Can you talk?

I’m afraid I might do something to hurt myself. Can you come over?

Avoid a Crisis

If you know you may be at risk for self-harm, you can prepare yourself. 

  • Talk to a trusted loved one about how you are feeling.

  • Seek treatment for depression from a mental health professional.

  • Make a safety plan to help you manage suicidal feelings and urges so you know how to stay safe if they come.

How To Get Help

If you are considering attempting suicide or having intrusive thoughts about harming yourself, please get help right away. Reach out to a trusted friend or family member for help and call 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

If a Loved One Is Feeling Suicidal

If you have a loved one who struggles with mental health, learn the warning signs of suicide. Don’t wait for them to reach out if you see any concerning behaviors or signs. 

Ask your loved one if they are okay. Sometimes it’s best to ask directly if they are suicidal. Research has shown that talking to someone openly about suicide does not increase their risk. 

If a person tells you they feel suicidal, take them seriously:

  • Do not leave them alone. 

  • Remove any dangerous items and lock up guns and pills.

  • Ask if they have an active plan to harm themselves. Help them get professional help to stay safe if they do. 

Find resources for navigating a mental health crisis and supporting a loved one at www.nami.org.

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