Suicide Awareness & Prevention: Approaching Someone in Crisis

September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. In honor of suicide prevention and awareness, we wanted to share some tips for approaching someone who appears to be in a crisis.

If someone you know is talking about ending their life or hurting themselves, and you're concerned about things they're either saying or doing, follow these tips:

Be Direct.

It's okay to be direct with people you're concerned about. However, when you speak to them directly, talk to them lovingly and kindly. Try saying something like, "I am really concerned about the things you're saying, and I want you to get help."

Point them to Resources.

Don't try to fix the problems on your own. Point the individual to additional resources, such as the National Suicide Hotline or other mental health resources. The National Suicide Hotline can be reached at 988 by text or phone call, and they can also go online to 988lifeline.org to speak with trained professionals. Do some research and recommend local mental health resources such as counseling centers as well.

Be Supportive.

Throughout the process, be a friend to the person in need. Check-in on them regularly, offer to take them to appointments, etc. They will need your support to get through this crisis. 

For more tips like this, check our resources page weekly and stay connected with us on social media!

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Instagram: @renewed_counseling