What To Do If You See Warning Signs A Person Is At Risk For Suicide
Recently, the news has been filled with stories of celebrity suicides – but they are by far not the only people who die by suicide. Since 1999, the rate of suicide deaths has increased by 25% in the United States. It has been reported that 90% of the victims have a mental illness at the time; however more than 50% were never diagnosed and did not receive help.
WATCH: Suicide Is A Leading Cause Of Death In The United States; What’s Causing People To Take Their Own Life?
Dr. Phil, along with Coach Mike Bayer, offers steps to take if you see the warning signs that someone you know – or yourself – may be at risk for suicide.
Talk about it
Ask direct, specific questions, avoiding bias or judgment
Have an action plan and resource – provide the number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) or a counselor to get the person help so they are not left alone
Do not trivialize
Be prepared to listen
“Being a compassionate ear and hearing what they have to say can make the difference between life and death,” Dr. Phil says.Don’t keep secrets – if you’re concerned about a friend, let somebody know. You may just save his or her life.
Don’t give up. Follow up and check in with the person constantly.
“If you’re seeing these warning signs, don’t be afraid that you’re going to suggest someone into killing themselves; that’s not going to happen,” Dr. Phil says.
Learn more in the video above.
If you or someone you know needs help, reach out:
Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255
Visit: SuicidePreventionLifeline.org
Join the movement: BeThe1To.com, #BeThe1To
