Talking about suicide may give someone ideas to try it.
FACT
It is safer to ask than to not ask about whether someone is having suicidal thoughts. Asking someone if they are having these thoughts reduces the stigma, allowing the person permission to open up about how they are feeling.
2
MYTH
If someone is determined to die then they will always remain suicidal.
FACT
Suicidal crises are often short term and situation specific. Most people who feel suicidal do not want to end their lives, they just want to end these feelings or situation they are in.
Suicide is preventable.
3
MYTH
Suicide happens without warning.
FACT
Most suicides have been preceded by verbal or behavioral warning signs. People who struggle with suicidal thoughts try to communicate that they need help, whether consciously or sub consciously. It’s important to spot these signs and be prepared to ask them.
4
MYTH
Someone who is serious about suicide must have a mental disorder.
FACT
1 in 5 adults say they have thought about suicide at one point in their lives. These thoughts can indicate deep unhappiness and doesn’t necessary mean they have a mental disorder.
5
MYTH
Someone threatening suicide are just seeking attention.
FACT
Anyone who talks about suicide needs serious attention.
Most people who die by suicide, talk about it first. The attention they get can save their lives.
How to spot the signs that someone is suicidal?
- THE SIGNS -
Threaten to take their own life
Withdrawing from others
Looking for a way to end their life
No hope for the future
Talk or write about dying
Self-destructive behaviour
Talking about suicide
Self-loathing, self-hatred
Saying goodbye
Saying goodbye
Threaten to take their own life
Looking for a way to end their life
Withdrawing from others
No hope for the future
Self-destructive behaviour
Talk or write about dying
Talking about suicide
Self-loathing, self-hatred
- THE SIGNS -
There’s no quick “toggle” fix for people experiencing suicidal thoughts.
These things take time and patience to deal with. We never really know what goes through a person’s mind.
Be kind, always.
- THE HELP -
!
If you think someone is in immediate danger, the quickest way to get help is to call an ambulance on 999
START
Give them space to talk about their feelings.
Stay calm. Staying calm will help them feel calmer too.
Keep things as normal as possible such as inviting them to social events.
Never assume what may have caused their feelings or what will help.
Reassure them and let them know they’re not alone.
