Dealing With Suicide Risk
In an emergency, call 911 or get the person to a hospital.
Helping a person who may be at risk for suicide is not easy. But it could save the person’s life. Don’t hesitate to ask others for help if you need it.
This is general information only. Ask a healthcare provider for more information.
Suicide is a serious risk for people with bipolar disorder. Watch for these signs.
| If the person: |
Here are things that may help: |
- Seems to feel hopeless or thinks that things will not get better
- Talks about being a problem for others
- Does risky things
- Will not talk to others and wants to be alone
- Talks about suicide or wanting to die
- Talks about ways to kill himself or herself
- Drinks too much alcohol or uses street drugs
- Suddenly gets things in order (like a will) or gives things away
- Writes a suicide note
|
- Ask what the person is thinking. Be direct.
- Listen to the person; show you care about his or her feelings.
- Remind the person that help is available
- Make sure the person takes his or her medicine on a regular basis.
- Be sure the person is not alone when depression seems severe.
- Keep guns, knives, and medicines in a safe place.
- Call a healthcare provider or others trained to help.
- Call the National Hopeline Network at 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433).
|
Next: Resources
|
