You're Not Alone - Resources for Suicide Prevention

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

There are things to look out for when you are concerned that a loved one or friend may be suicidal. Look for changes in behavior or the presence of entirely new behaviors. This is of most concern if the new or changed behavior is related to a painful event, loss, or change. Most people who take their lives exhibit one or more warning signs, either through what they say or what they do.

• Talking; if a person talks about:
  • Killing themselves
  • Feeling hopeless
  • Having no reason to live
  • Being a burden to others
  • Feeling trapped
  • Unbearable pain
• Behaviors that may signal risk, especially if related to a painful event, loss or change:
  • Increased use of alcohol or drugs
  • Looking for a way to end their lives, such as searching online for methods
  • Withdrawing from activities
  • Isolating from family and friends
  • Sleeping too much or too little
  • Visiting or calling people to say goodbye
  • Giving away prized possessions
  • Aggression
  • Fatigue
• Mood; people who are considering suicide often display one or more of the following moods:
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Loss of interest
  • Irritability
  • Humiliation/Shame
  • Agitation/Anger
  • Relief/Sudden Improvement

WHAT TO DO

Please know there are concrete, actionable steps all of us can take when it comes to suicide prevention. We must be present for ourselves so we can be there for someone who might be struggling or is in a crisis.

• Some things we can do:
  • Check in with a friend by phone or text message to see how they are doing.
  • Invite a friend to meet for coffee or a meal together.
  • Send a handwritten card to let someone know you are thinking of them.
  • Help them connect with ongoing support, such as a local crisis line, the National Suicide Prevention Life line (1-800-273-8255) or the Crisis Text Line (text “4hope” to 741 741)
  • Learn the risk factors and warning signs.
  • Help connect someone who is struggling to professional care.
• Find help:
  • The Ohio CareLine is a 24/7 emotional support call service created by the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services. The line offers free, confidential support in times of personal crisis when individuals may be struggling to cope with current challenges in their lives.
  • Crisis Text Line, text the keyword “4hope” to 741 741 to be connected to a trained Crisis Counselor within 5 minutes.
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Number (800-273-8255), which provides 24/7, free, and confidential support.
  • Mental Health Treatment Locator
  • Substance Use Disorder Treatment Locator

This information is from the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services webpage.  You can find more information at:  

Suicide Prevention | Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (ohio.gov)