We Can All Help Prevent Suicide

The following recommendations are provided by the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, a service established in partnership with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Together, they aim to shift the conversation from suicide to suicide prevention, emphasizing actions that promote healing, offer support, and inspire hope.

Ask

Research shows people who are having thoughts of suicide feel relief when someone asks after them in a caring way. Findings suggest acknowledging and talking about suicide may reduce rather than increase suicidal ideation.

Be There

Individuals are more likely to feel less depressed, less suicidal, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful by after speaking to someone who listens without judgment.

Keep Them Safe

A number of studies have indicated that when lethal means are made less available or less deadly, suicide rates by that method decline, and frequently suicide rates overall decline.

Help Them Stay Connected

Studies indicate that helping someone at risk create a network of resources and individuals for support and safety can help them take positive action and reduce feelings of hopelessness.

Follow Up

Studies have also shown that brief, low cost intervention and supportive, ongoing contact may be an important part of suicide prevention, especially for individuals after they have been discharged from hospitals or care services.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at www.988lifeline.org