09/11/2022
September 4th through 10th is National Su***de Prevention Week. Throughout this week we will be providing you with information about the risk factors and warning signs of su***de, in addition to providing information on how to support someone in a crisis and providing you with some resources.
Today’s topic is Supporting Someone in Crisis and Resources. Knowing how to support someone in crisis and resources can assist you in finding help for yourself, a loved one or a friend.
When a su***de related crisis occus, friends and family are often caught off-guard, unprepared and unsure of what to do. The behaviors of a person experiencing a crisis can be unpredictable, changing dramatically without warning. Here are some ways to support someone in a crisis:
Talk openly and honestly. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Calmly ask simple and direct questions such as, “Can I help you call your doctor?”
If there are multiple people around, have one person speak at a time.
Express support and concern
Remove any potentially harmful items
Don’t argue, threaten or raise your voice
Don’t debate whether su***de is right or wrong
If you are nervous, try not to fidget or pace
Be patient
If you or someone you love is in a crisis, there are resources available to help. Tell a trusted adult such as a parent, teacher, coach, or school counselor. You can also call the Su***de and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or use the Crisis Text Line by texting NAMI to 741741. In an emergency, call 911 for immediate assistance for you or for someone else. By knowing the risk factors, warning signs and how to support someone in crisis we can all work together to help support one another.
