Ways to Help Suicidal People

Stressful situations often create feelings of depression and hopelessness that can lead to suicide. Financial strain or the loss of a job can cause a person to feel trapped. Divorce, separation or the break up of a family or relationship can also cause suicidal feelings. The death of a friend or family member might trigger depression and thoughts of suicide. If you know someone dealing with these issues, talk to them to make sure they are coping with their problems in a healthy way.

Recognize Warning Signs

• Recognizing the warning signs of suicide is the first step in providing help to someone contemplating suicide. Suicidal individuals are usually depressed, and feelings of hopelessness, guilt and low self-worth are all warning signs. Changes in eating or sleeping habits also suggest depression. Individuals considering suicide might engage in reckless behavior, or a preoccupation with suicide or death in conversation also might indicate trouble. Similarly, an individual who seems to be saying goodbye to people or places they know and care for might be contemplating suicide, according to HelpGuide.org. Suicidal individuals might withdraw from society and avoid social situations.

Take Threats Seriously

• If someone you know threatens to commit suicide, take that threat seriously. Such threats are usually a call for help. Never respond to a suicide threat in a joking manner. Additionally, consider statements such as "I would be better off dead" seriously even if it was not intended as a threat, suggests HelpGuide.org.

Listen

• People considering suicide usually feel hopeless, as though they are trapped in a situation with no way out, according to HelpGuide.org. Though they might withdraw from social situations, depressed and suicidal people often need someone to talk to. Encourage your friend or loved one to talk to you, and be a good listener: Do not offer advice or argue; be patient and attentive; and offer a shoulder to cry on, but refrain from being judgmental. When you respond, maintain a positive and hopeful attitude.

Don't Leave Them Alone

• If a loved one threatens suicide, do not leave her alone. Remove any materials that might be used for suicide from the home, including guns or dangerous medications. Take shifts with other friends or family members if necessary. It is important that you take care of yourself so that you can also care for your loved one.

Offer to Find Help

• Suicidal individuals might be too scared or embarrassed to seek professional help. Offer to locate resources, such as doctors or therapists, who can help. More important, offer to stay with them as long as possible throughout the process. Your offers to find help might not be accepted at first, but keep trying.