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An Uncomfortable, but Necessary Discussion
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We understand suicide is a seemingly difficult and uncomfortable conversation to have with anyone. Be encouraged that the information shared below are tools and resources to initiate an informed conversation that could potentially save a life. Although having the conversation about suicide seems uncomfortable it will prove to be beneficial. We hope the information below is useful in helping you and/or your family move forward with this important, necessary and life changing conversation.
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Tips to Remember:
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Always take threats of suicide seriously.
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Discussing remedies to avoid suicide will not encourage suicidal thoughts, behaviors or attempts.
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Suicide effects all ages, races, genders and socio-economic statuses.
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It is not advised to use religious, spiritual or physical threats to prevent thoughts of suicide.
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Seek help immediately if you, a friend, family member or associate is thinking about or in the act of committing suicide.
Help is a Phone Call Away!
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NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
1-800-273-8255
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Definitions
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Suicide - The act of taking one's own life.​
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Suicidal Ideations - The act of having thoughts of taking one's own life.
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Suicide Attempt - The act of attempting to take one's own life. Suicide attempts do not result in death, but may result in bodily harm.
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NSSI (Non-Suicidal Self-Injury): NSSI is generally used to cope with distressing negative effective states, especially anger, Depression and mixed emotional states. Examples of NSSI are (but not limited to): cutting, burning, stabbing, hitting body parts or excessive rubbing. The most common form of self injury is using sharp objects to cut one's skin.
Warning Signs & Symptoms
Warning Signs & Symptoms
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Depression - common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think and how you act. Depression causes feelings of sadness and/or a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed . It can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and can decrease a person's ability to function at work and at home. (American Psychiatric Association)
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Anxiety - a nervous disorder characterized by a state of excessive uneasiness and apprehension, typically with compulsive behavior or panic attacks. (Dictionary.com)
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Loss of Interest
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Irritability
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Humiliation/Shame
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Agitation/Anger
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Relief/ Sudden Improvement
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Talking about killing themselves
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Feelings of hopelessness
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Believing they have no reason to live
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Feeling trapped in situations/circumstances with no solution to real or perceived problems
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Perceived or real unbearable pain
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Increased use of alcohol or drugs (street or prescribed)
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Looking for a way to end their lives, such as searching online for methods or consulting with friends or family
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Isolating from family and friends
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Sleeping too much or not enough
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Visiting or calling people to say goodbye
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Giving away prize possessions
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Unexplained or irregular fatigue
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Risk Factors:
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Traumatic brain injury
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Serious physical health conditions including pain
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Mental health disorders/conditions
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Substance abuse/use
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Personality traits of aggression, mood changes and poor relationships
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Environmental Factors:
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Environments where domestic violence and aggressive behaviors are present
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Stressful live events involving rejection, divorce, financial crisis and other events involving loss
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Experiencing a suicide of another or graphic or sensationalized accounts of suicide
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Historical Factors:
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Previous suicide attempt
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Family history of suicide
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Childhood abuse, neglect or trauma
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Disclaimer: All information provided is for educational purposes only. If you or someone you know is
experiencing anything described above contact a medical professional, resources below or emergency assistance in your area if applicable.
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