125 people die by suicide every week in the UK and 130 people every day in the US. We need to talk about suicide more openly so we can understand it, break the stigma surrounding it and save more lives.
The Signs: What to keep an eye out for
We know it can be hard - sometimes impossible - to notice that someone may be suicidal. That makes it even more important that we talk about it. But there’s some stuff to keep an eye out for:
Ups and downs in their mood
Wanting to hang out less
Talking about suicide/wanting to die in a vague or joking way
Changes to their routine, like sleeping and eating
Seeming flat or low on energy
Neglecting themselves, showering less, or caring less about their personal appearance
Seeming reckless or making rash decisions
Increased alcohol or drug use
Being more angry or irritable than usual
Giving away their possessions
Saying goodbye to friends and family as if they won’t see them again
But remember, sometimes you’ll see none of the above. So if you ever suspect someone is struggling, trust your gut and reach out to them.
The Words: How to start a conversation
Let them know you’re there. Don’t worry about finding the perfect words – there’s no right or wrong, just let them know they have your support.
Yeah, it might be awkward at first but it could also be the most important conversation you ever have - and we’ve got loads of practical tips to help.
Do:
be direct and willing to listen
allow them time to talk
ask questions like “How does that make you feel?”
reassure them that these feelings aren’t permanent and support is available.
Don’t
try and fix things
pretend to know how they feel
convince them how lucky they are.
The Support: Where to direct them if they’re struggling
You don’t have to have all the answers. If someone is struggling, the best thing to do is let them know they can always speak to an expert and that support is available right now if they need it.
If you or someone you know is experiencing depression or has had thoughts of harming themself or taking their own life, get help.
Provides 24/7, free, confidential support for people in distress, as well as best practices for professionals and resources to aid in prevention and crisis situations.
Phone: 988 (Call or text); Call or text "AYUDA" to 988 (Spanish); deaf or disability options available
If you are thinking about harming yourself — get immediate support. Connect to a crisis counselor 24/7, 365 days a year, from anywhere in the U.S. It is 100% confidential, and 100% free.
RAINN is the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization. RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline in partnership with more than 1,000 local sexual assault service providers across the country.
Trained expert advocates are available 24/7 to provide confidential support to anyone experiencing domestic violence or seeking resources and information. Help is available in Spanish and other languages.
Call 1.800.799.SAFE (7233) or Text "START" to 88788
SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a confidential, free, 24-hour-a-day, 365-day-a-year, information service, in English and Spanish, for individuals and family members facing mental and/or substance use disorders. This service provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations.
Campaign Against Living Miserably is a suicide prevention charity that offers free, anonymous, and confidential support via their helpline and webchat for anyone who is in crisis.
With Kids Help Phone’s texting service, you can chat with a trained, volunteer crisis responder for support any time, about anything, via text message.
Their texting service is free and available across Canada 24/7.
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