Suicide is a pressing public health issue that affects individuals and communities worldwide. Despite increased awareness and efforts to address mental health, suicide remains a leading cause of death. Understanding how to identify the signs that someone may be struggling and knowing how to offer support can make a significant difference. This article aims to shed light on the signs of suicidal ideation, provide guidance on how to support someone in crisis, and offer a practical example of a supportive conversation.

Identifying Signs of Struggle

Recognizing the signs that someone is contemplating suicide can be challenging, as people often hide their pain. However, certain behaviors and indicators can signal distress:

  1. Verbal Cues: Talking about wanting to die, feeling hopeless, having no reason to live, being a burden to others, or seeking means to end their life.
  2. Behavioral Changes: Withdrawing from activities, isolating from friends and family, exhibiting extreme mood swings, increased use of alcohol or drugs, and giving away prized possessions.
  3. Emotional Indicators: Displaying intense sadness, irritability, anxiety, or a sense of hopelessness and despair.
  4. Physical Signs: Noticeable changes in sleeping patterns, appetite, or energy levels.

How to Support Someone in Crisis

Supporting someone who may be suicidal requires empathy, patience, and a non-judgmental approach. Here are some steps to take:

  1. Ask Directly: If you suspect someone is considering suicide, ask them directly. It shows you care and can open the door for them to share their feelings. For example, “I’ve noticed you’ve been really down lately, and I’m concerned. Are you thinking about hurting yourself?”
  2. Listen and Validate: Allow them to express their feelings without interrupting or judging. Validate their emotions by acknowledging their pain, e.g., “That sounds incredibly tough. I’m so sorry you’re feeling this way.”
  3. Stay With Them: If they express suicidal thoughts, ensure they are not left alone. Offer to stay with them or connect them with someone who can.
  4. Encourage Professional Help: Encourage them to seek professional support from a therapist, counselor, or doctor. Offer to help them make an appointment or accompany them.
  5. Create a Safety Plan: Help them develop a safety plan that includes removing access to means of self-harm and identifying people they can contact during a crisis.
  6. Follow Up: Check in with them regularly to show ongoing support and care.

It can be hard to know what to look out for when talking to someone that you love and care for. It can also be difficult to even speak to a co-worker. Below we have a mock conversation that may be helpful when encountering this scenario.

Mock Conversation

Friend: “Hey, you’ve been really quiet lately. Are you okay?”

Person in Crisis: “I’m just tired, that’s all.”

Friend: “I know you’ve been dealing with a lot. Sometimes when people feel overwhelmed, they start thinking about hurting themselves. Have you been feeling like that?”

Person in Crisis: “I don’t know. Sometimes I just feel like it would be easier if I wasn’t here.”

Friend: “I’m really sorry you’re feeling this way. You’re not alone, and I’m here for you. Can we talk about what’s been going on? Maybe we can find a way to make things better together.”

Person in Crisis: “I don’t know if talking will help.”

Friend: “I understand it feels like that right now, but sharing what’s on your mind might lighten the load a bit. And I’m here to listen. How about we reach out to a counselor together? They can help us navigate this.”

Person in Crisis: “Maybe. Thanks for being here.”

Friend: “Of course. Let’s take it one step at a time. How about we call the crisis hotline together now?”

When supporting someone in crisis it is important to remind them that they are not alone and that there are supports available. Below are a few support lines that are available to assist a person in crisis.

Support Lines

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, reach out to these resources:

Nationwide:

  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
  • Crisis Text Line: Text HELLO to 741741
  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Text or Call 988, they also have a chat option through their website https://988lifeline.org/
  • The Trevor Project (Suicide support for LGBTQ+): Call 1-866-488-7386 or text 678-678

New York:

  • NYC Well: 1-888-NYC-WELL (1-888-692-9355) or text “WELL” to 65173
  • NYS Office of Mental Health Crisis Hotline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text GOT5 to 741741
  • Capital EAP: Call at 518-465-3813

Talking about suicide can be difficult, but it’s a conversation we need to have. By recognizing the signs, offering support, and connecting individuals with professional help, we can save lives. Remember, you are not alone, and help is available. If you are struggling with thoughts of hopelessness and intense sadness, please reach out to Capital EAP for support, we have crisis and supportive services available to help you through this time. If you would also like support on how to help someone through these emotions you can reach out to us at 518-465-3813 and one of our clinicians would be happy to help.

By: Denelle Abel, LMHC-SAP, EAP Clinical Supervisor