ABOUT SUICIDE:
Warning signs:
- People who are at risk for attempting suicide frequently talk about their thoughts with others, sometimes in off-handed, frustrated or even joking ways.
- A sudden change in future plans, giving things away, or talk like, "after I'm gone," or "when I leave."
- Noticeable changes in daily routine such as eating, sleeping or overall behavior, etc.
- The risk is even higher if: If a person has attempted suicide before, or has exhibited dangerous behaviors such as cutting, binge drinking or drug use, or has lost another friend or family member within the last year.
If the "person" I am worried about is really me:
- Talk about how you are feeling right away to a counselor, parent, teacher, clergy person, or other responsible adult who can take action to help you. Remember that help is available!
- Call a local crisis hotline or Samaritans Hotline number.
- The Samaritans: (Fall River/New Bedford area) 508-673-3777 or 508-999-7267
- New Bedford Crisis Center: 508-996-3154
- National: (For Web site visitors outside of our area.)
Call the Covenant House "Nine Line" at 1-800-999-9999
- For parents: A very good, thorough, source of information about the dangers of suicide by The American Academy of Pediatrics:
http://www.aap.org/advocacy/childhealthmonth/prevteensuicide.htm
- Suicidal.Com: A web site (posted by an individual) to help those at risk, their families and loved ones to understand suicide. - http://suicidal.com/
If you are worried about someone else who has indicated that they are thinking about suicide:
- Learn the difference between facts and myth. Talking about suicide with someone at risk does not prompt him or her to consider suicide even more. That is a myth.
- A young person's thoughts about committing suicide will not "go away" if you avoid talking about it. That is a myth.
- Children and teens that have either attempted suicide in the past, who may be threatening to do so now, are not just looking for attention. That is a myth. It is very important to seek professional help immediately.
- If you are a parent or concerned adult, talk with the young person at risk and seek professional help immediately.
- If someone you care about is considering suicide, listen to him or her, express to them your concern, stay calm, stay close and seek help.
- For parents: A very good, thorough, source of information about the dangers of suicide by The American Academy of Pediatrics: http://www.aap.org/advocacy/childhealthmonth/prevteensuicide.htm