Suicide Prevention: Resources, Warning Signs & How to Help

If you or someone you know is in crisis, help is available 24/7. You are not alone.

Immediate Crisis Resources (US)

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 (en español: 988, then press 2).
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741.
• Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1.
• Emergency: 911 (imminent danger).
• International: IASP | Befrienders | findahelpline.com

Warning Signs (IS PATH WARM)

• Ideation (thoughts, talk, writing about death/suicide)
• Substance abuse (increased)
• Purposelessness (no reason to live)
• Anxiety, agitation, insomnia
• Trapped (no way out)
• Hopelessness
• Withdrawal (from friends, family, activities)
• Anger, rage, revenge-seeking
• Recklessness, risky behavior
• Mood changes (dramatic)

How to Help (QPR: Question, Persuade, Refer)

1. Question: Ask directly: "Are you thinking about suicide?" / "Do you have a plan?" (Asking does NOT plant the idea.)
2. Persuade: Listen non-judgmentally. "I care. Let me help you get help." Remove means (firearms, pills, sharps).
3. Refer: Connect to crisis line, therapist, ER, trusted adult. Stay with them until linked.

Professional Treatment

• Therapy: CBT, DBT, CAMS (Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality).
• Medication: Treat underlying depression, anxiety, psychosis.
• Safety planning: Written plan with coping strategies, contacts, means restriction.

For Survivors of Loss

• AFSP (American Foundation for Suicide Prevention) support groups.
• Alliance of Hope (online community).
• Therapy for complicated grief/trauma.

Suicide is preventable. Reach out. Stay connected. Hope is real.