It
is not easy to hear that someone is in danger of killing himself
or herself. In order to best help, adults must remain
calm, encourage discussion, and quickly access the appropriate
services (Reference 3).
Try to learn
as much as possible about the individual's thoughts,
plans, and actions
Ask questions like:
“Do you have
a plan?”
“Do you ever
think about killing yourself?”
Never
promise to keep a secret about suicidal thoughts,
plans, or behaviors. People at risk often ask others
to keep secrets about suicidal thoughts, but this only puts
them at increased risk.
Electronic,
print, and multimedia resources are provided to help you to
find additional authoritative information on What to do to help
as an Adult. These resources are available from such national
organizations as The National Institute of Mental Health as
well as professional organizations, not-for-profit organizations,
and educational institutions.
Internet
Suicide
Prevention and Advocacy Network USA, Inc. (SPAN)
The
SPAN is a U.S. not-for-profit organization that links individuals
impacted by suicide with the expertise of leaders in science,
business, government and public service to achieve the goal
of significantly reducing the national rate of suicide by
the year 2010.
The
SPAN Web site is available at the following Web address:
