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Preventing Suicide Network Helping those who help others

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What to do to help as an Adult

Introduction

React responsibly

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.

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References for What to do to help as an Adult

Resources

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:

http://www.spanusa.org/

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What to look for

>>Myths

>Professional resources

>>Professional screening tools