Suicide: How You Can Help

A suicide attempt or act of self-harm

Expressing suicidal thoughts

A preoccupation with death

Depression

Becoming isolated

Alcohol or drug abuse

Sudden changes in mood or behaviour

Making final arrangements such as giving away items like CDs, DVDs or booksAssociated risk factors

Access to a method of suicide such as medication or firearms

Loss of someone close

Relationship break-up

Impulsive, reckless and risk-taking behaviour

Alcohol or drug abuse

These can be associated with everyday behaviour and should be looked at in the context of the wider situation of the person you are concerned about How to respond

Show you care: Offer support and let them know you care. Say something like: ‘I’m worried about you and I want to help’ or ‘Whatever’s bothering you we will get through this together’

Ask the question: Don’t be afraid to discuss suicide. Ask ‘Do you feel like harming yourself?’ or ‘Do you feel like ending your life?’

Listen: Allow the person to tell you how bad things are for them. Being listened to by someone who cares can help relieve the pain they are experiencing

Call for help: Encourage them to look for help. Say: ‘You’re not alone and there are people who can help you out of this situation’Where to turn for help

Contact the Samaritans on 08457 909090

Contact your local doctor or GP out-of-hours

Go to, or contact, the Accident and Emergency Department of your local hospital

Visit the Department of Health’s Minding Your Head website at www.mindingyourhead.info

Contact Youth runs a 24-hour helpline 0808 808 8000 for young people, especially young men, aged 15-25

Visit www.pipsproject.com or www.rays.org.uk

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