What you can do to help someone dealing with suicidal thoughts
Posted June 8, 2018 2:03 pm.
Last Updated June 8, 2018 2:04 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – After two high profile deaths this week, we are talking to an expert about what to look out for in people who may be thinking about suicide.
Liz Robbins with the Crisis Intervention and Suicide Prevention Centre of BC says help is available around the clock.
“We have some great resources in the province. The main resource is 1-800-SUICIDE, which is a provincial service that is answered by crisis lines across the province.”
According to the Crisis Intervention and Suicide Prevention Centre’s website, there are a number of things to look out for.
Suicide Warning Signs
- It is important to mention that while 80 per cent of those considering, attempted or have completed suicide give off warning signs, 20 per cent do not.
- Sudden marked changes in behavior or appearance.
- Talking, joking, writing, or becoming increasingly preoccupied with suicide and death e.g. “I might as well be dead”
- Preparations for death, such as giving away possessions.
- A previous suicide attempt.
- A decline in school or work attendance/performance.
- Expressions of a sense of hopelessness and/or helplessness.
- Sudden losses e.g. financial, relationship break-up, the death of a loved one.
- Sudden changes in eating and sleeping patterns.
How You Can Help/Where To Find Help
- Ask a person directly if they are considering suicide. This will not ‘give them the idea’, but it does show that you care and are taking them seriously.
- Listen and provide non-judgmental support.
- Arrange for the person to get help, whether from a crisis centre, hospital, mental health centre, or another local resource.
- Do not leave a suicidal person alone.
- Do not agree to keep another person’s suicidal thoughts a secret.
