I’m worried someone is suicidal, what can I do?
04/01/2019
“See the signs – save a life” is a campaign across Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire. This information is taken from their leaflet.
Warning signs to look out for that could indicate someone is experiencing suicidal thoughts and feelings:
- Talking or complaining of feeling hopeless and life is not worth living
- Talking about feeling trapped and can’t see a way out of their current situation
- Saying that friends or family would be better off without them
- Talking or writing about death, dying or suicide
- Sudden lift in mood after a period of severe depression
- Looking into methods and means to end their own life
- Putting all their affairs in order e.g. sorting possessions or making a will
- Saying that they can hear voices telling them to end their own life
Here are 4 things you can do:
- Act early – if you notice any of these warning signs in a friend, relative or loved one encourage them to talk about how they are feeling. If there is immediate danger don’t leave them alone
- Don’t be afraid to ask directly about suicide – it will not make their feelings worse or give them ideas. Saying something is safer than saying nothing. Discussing suicide openly is one of the most helpful things you can do. Give them a chance to open up about feelings and help them to think about more positive options.
- Offer support – listen and talk – encourage them to talk. Use open questions. Focus on listening to what they are saying and not trying to think of solutions.
- Encourage them to reach out to organisations
If you have serious concerns do not leave them on their own and get urgent professional help from their GP, call 999 or take them to A&E. Make sure that you are safe and do not put yourself at risk.
Support and Helplines:
Samaritans 116 123
Papyrus (Prevention of Young Suicide) 0800 068 4141 www.papyrus-uk.org
Campaign against living miserably (CALM) – support for men 0800 58 58 58 www.thecalmzone.net
Mind BLMK 0300 330 0648 www.mind-blmk.org.uk