Suicide Prevention Week
In recognition of suicide prevention week, we want to acknowledge the struggle many are facing. Mental health can be a hard topic to talk about and a person’s emotional pain can often go unnoticed. This is why it’s always good to check in with friends and loved ones even if they don’t appear to be in crisis.
If you think somebody might be stressed emotionally, here are some steps you can take to help:
Ask
It’s OK to ask a friend or loved one directly if they are having a hard time or even thinking of hurting themselves. People often feel relief when they are asked in a caring way.
Be There
Listen with compassion and empathy and without dismissing or judging. It can be easy to interrupt with advice or reasons they should be happy, so it is important to be aware of our response and allow the person to express their feelings.
Keep Them Safe
If your friend is in crisis or considering self-harm, separate them from anything they could use to hurt themselves.
Help Them Connect
Help connect your loved one to a support system, whether it’s family, friends, clergy, coaches, therapists, or other community supports. You can also give them information about calling WAListens, 1.833.681.0211, to speak to a support specialist or the regional crisis line, 1.877.266.1818, if they need immediate help.
Follow Up
Check in with the person on a regular basis. Contacting a friend who is going through a time of emotional pain can make a big difference.
Here is a list of additional resources that are also available:
- SRHD: Suicide Prevention (Resources, Warning Signs, Tips on What to do)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800.273.8255
- La Red Nacional de Prevención del Suicidio: 888.628.9454
- Crisis Text Line: Text “HOME” to 741741
- The Trevor Project Lifeline (LGBTQ Crisis and Suicide Hotline): 866.488.7386
- Veterans Crisis Line: 800.273.8255, Press 1
- Teen Line (Teen-to-Teen Help Hotline): 310.855.4673
Adapted from: https://www.bethe1to.com/bethe...