© 2008 Community Crisis Services, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
We provide a non-judgmental listening ear and help develop options in an effort to find solutions. Callers are of all races, age, gender, sexual orientation, religious background and income levels. Problems include depression, sexual and physical assault, pregnancy concerns, family difficulties, and child & adult abuse & neglect.
What can you do to help? You can help make your community suicide safer by learning the invitations for suicide and steps to take to help a person at risk connect with resources and stay safe. Probably the most efficient way to learn this is to attend a training on suicide. Here are some things you can do to help a person at risk for suicide:
Ask about suicide clearly and directly e.g. "Are you thinking about suicide?". Asking clearly and directly helps give permission to talk about suicide.
Be willing to listen. Listen to the reasons the person at risk wants to die. You may find they discover reasons to live on their own.
Be non-judgmental. Don't debate whether suicide is right or wrong, or feelings are good or bad. Don't lecture on the value of life.
- Be available. Show interest and support.
- Don't dare him or her to do it.
- Don't act shocked. This can put distance between you and the person at risk.
- Don't be sworn to secrecy. Seek support.
- Offer hope that alternatives are available, but do not offer flib reassurance.
- Take action. If you feel safe doing so, remove the method of suicide.
- Get help from persons or agencies specializing in crisis intervention and suicide prevention.
If you or someone you know is at risk for suicide, please call
301.864.7130
1.800.273.TALK (8255)
