Quotes
"Be strong, stand up, use your voice."
Steps
If you notice your friend is sad, depressed, lonely, or you might even think they are having suicidal thoughts, here are some steps that you should think about:
Getting Someone HelpIf you know someone that has attempted suicide or someone thinking about attempting suicide the most important thing to do is to get them help. There are many ways to get them help according to the issues they are going through:
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Some Things To Understand
How Could Someone Want to Die?
Symptoms
If a friend has already attempted suicide, and they still haven't gotten help. They probably still need it. You may think your friend has stopped thinking about it, but chances are, they haven't stopped having those thoughts and feelings.
- Many people don't understand or see other options they have than dying. Many people who consider dying still want to live; however, they have different emotions about what people think of them. But, you could save their life.
- Even a hint or joke could mean something. If a friend or peer hints or jokes about suicide take it seriously. So, ask them "Are you thinking about attempting or committing suicide?" Asking does not cause suicide! Asking just to be cautious is important. Just because you asked it does not cause thoughts of suicide of depression. You can always get an adult to help you talk to a peer. There are other things to like suicide phone lines. These people will teach you how to talk to someone, talk about suicide, or talk about your own suicidal thoughts. (Just one of these Lifelines is 1-800-273-8255). People are there for you.
- There is always, always, always, someone that cares, someone that can and will help. Someone that WANTS to help. There are many adults that care too: counselors, parents, teachers, doctors, coaches. You could also call one of the many Suicide Lifelines.
- Don't let your friends make you promise to keep that kind of secret. Even if you do make that promise. It is still VERY important to tell someone, an adult that can help. Tell your friend that they need help. That they can't hide what they feel. Tell them that you can help them but they need to let other people know too.
- At this point, you really should be listening to them. Don't interrupt, don't give advice, don't zone-out, LISTEN. They are obviously telling you something important, and it may be something that they have been hiding for a long time. Put yourself in their shoes. Try to understand where they're coming from, try to understand what they're thinking, and try to understand what they're going through. Show them that you really do care.
- Don't leave someone with that type of thought alone. Let them know that you're there for them. Let them know that someone cares, and you won't let them go through this alone. Go with them to talk to an adult.
- If there are firearms or any common things that could lead to suicide move them away until the are done having that type of thought process. In case they make any impulsive action you want to make sure they stay safe. You don't want them to have access to that type of thing.
- Don't cause yourself too much stress. Make sure you're helping your friend, but take care of yourself too. Make sure not only your friend has support but that you have support too.
- Learn about the different warning signs. Many times, they won't say anything. They might just be struggling emotionally on the inside. Some of their actions might show what they are dealing with on the inside. These actions might concern you, so again you should always ask.
- Threatening to kill or hurt themselves. Talking about wanting to die.
- Looking for suicidal items (pills, firearms, etc.).
- Talking or writing about death or suicide.
Symptoms
- Hopeless Feeling
- Anxiety
- Trouble sleeping or sleeping a lot
- Thinking there is not purpose/reason to live
- Feeling like you're trapped
- Increasing use of alcohol or drugs
- Wanting away from people (friends, family, etc.)
- Uncontrolled actions of anger or revenge
- Acting without thinking
- Dramatic mood changing
If a friend has already attempted suicide, and they still haven't gotten help. They probably still need it. You may think your friend has stopped thinking about it, but chances are, they haven't stopped having those thoughts and feelings.