WARNING SIGNS:
Eight out of ten people who are suicidal give warning signs
of their intentions. Learning to recognize these warning
signs is the first step in preventing suicide:
- Changes in eating or sleeping habits
- Apathy about school, job, interests
- Outbursts of anger, mood swings and drastic changes in behavior
- Withdrawal from friends, family and social activities
- Increased use of alcohol or other drugs
- Experience of recent loss
- Preoccupation with death--wills, funeral plans, insurance changes
- Giving away prized possessions
- Direct and indirect statements (for example, "I wish I were dead")
- Previous suicide attempts
WHAT TO DO -- WHAT NOT TO DO:
- Show support, caring and concern
- Ask about the person's feelings and whether he or she is thinking about suicide (This will not"cause"
the person to think about suicide--rather it will open up communication
- Help find alternatives
- Stay with the person, if possible
- Take action: Call the Suicide Prevention Hotline; get professional help! You are not alone
DON'T CHALLENGE
DON'T ARGUE
DON'T IGNORE THE SIGNS
THE 24 HOUR SUICIDE PREVENTION HOTLINE IS (614)221-5445
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Facts about Suicide
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