Everyone Can Play a Role in Suicide Prevention
Suicide is a complex and tragic issue, but it is often preventable. In the United States, suicide is the second leading cause of death for people ages 10 to 34 and the 11th-leading cause of death overall. Suicide affects individuals, families, workplaces, schools and communities. It is vital that everyone knows how to respond when someone may be experiencing thoughts of suicide.
5 Action Steps You Can Take
Here are five steps you can take to help someone who has thoughts of suicide. The National Institute of Mental Health provides these simple, evidence-based actions that anyone can use to support a person in crisis:
1. Ask
The first step is to ask a direct question:
"Are you thinking about killing yourself?"
Many people hesitate to use such direct language because they fear it may put the idea into someone's mind. However, research has consistently shown that asking someone about suicide does not increase suicidal thoughts. Instead, it shows concern, opens the door for honest communication and may provide a critical opportunity for intervention.
2. Be There
The second step is to be present, listen without judgment and acknowledge the person's feelings.
Being there for someone is often more important than finding the "right" words. People experiencing suicidal thoughts frequently report feeling alone, misunderstood or disconnected from others. Compassionate listening can reduce emotional distress, strengthen trust and help the person feel supported during a difficult time.
Simple responses such as "I'm glad you told me" or "You don't have to go through this alone" can make a meaningful difference.
3. Help Keep Them Safe
The third step focuses on reducing access to lethal means, which can significantly decrease the risk of suicide during a crisis.
This may involve identifying and temporarily limiting access to firearms, medications or other potentially dangerous items. Creating a safer environment can provide valuable time for the crisis to pass and to reach out for professional support.
4. Help Them Connect to Resources
No one should have to face a suicidal crisis alone. The fourth step involves helping the person connect with professional support and crisis resources.
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides immediate support through phone, text and chat services.
Other valuable resources may include:
- Mental health professionals
- Primary care providers
- Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
- Community mental health centers
- Peer support programs
Bryan West Campus offers a dedicated Mental Health Emergency Department, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. A trained team will meet with the person in crisis and determine whether hospitalization or additional treatment is needed.
5. Follow Up
Support should not end once the immediate crisis has passed. The final step is to follow up and maintain connection.
A text message, phone call or brief conversation can remind someone that they are not alone and you care about them. Reaching out to those in crisis has been shown to help them seek additional treatment and support.
Examples of follow-up messages include:
- "I've been thinking about you. How are you doing today?"
- "Were you able to connect with the counselor we discussed?"
- "Just checking in to see how things are going."
You Can Make a Difference
Friends, family members, co-workers, neighbors, teachers and community members can all play an important role in recognizing warning signs and responding with compassion.
These five action steps can help those in crisis move toward safety, hope and recovery.
Resources to Help Yourself and Others
Learn more about mental health services at: BryanHealth.org/MentalHealth
Take a free, confidential online mental health screening at: BryanHealth.org/MentalHealthScreening
Call 911 if someone is in immediate danger.
Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for support and crisis intervention.
