If you or someone you know are in a dark place, you don’t have to deal with it alone. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) to talk to someone.
Remember IS PATH WARM and you can spot someone in trouble:
- I Ideation
- S Substance Abuse
- P Purposelessness
- A Anxiety
- T Trapped
- H Hopelessness
- W Withdrawal
- A Anger
- R Recklessness
- M Mood Changes
A person in acute risk for suicidal behavior most often will threaten to hurt or kill him or herself, talk about it and look for ways to do it by seeking access to firearms, pills or other means. They might talk or write about death or suicide when the actions are out of the ordinary. If observed, seek help as soon as possible by contacting a mental health professional or calling 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for a referral.
Risk Factors for Suicide
- Mental disorders, particularly mood disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety and certain personality disorders
- Alcohol and substance use disorders
- Hopelessness
- Impulsive and/or aggressive tendencies
- History of trauma
- Major physical illness
- Family history of attempted or completed suicide
- Job or financial loss
- Loss of relationship
- Access to lethal methods of suicide during a time of increased risk
- If you are concerned about someone, take it seriously. Don’t tell person of concern to “just get over it” or “stop being dramatic.”
- Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) with the person you are concerned about or go to a local hospital emergency room with that person. You can also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for advice. Encourage professional counseling and attend the first appointment with the person.
Originally posted on Nisqually Valley News.