- If you have concerns about a person IN OUR CUSTODY that may be suicidal or in a crisis, we ask that you let a staff member know right away. Please call our facility, at any time, and ask to speak with a Shift Supervisor.
Our number is (413) 858-0195.
- If you have concerns about a person IN THE COMMUNITY that may be suicidal or or in a crisis, please call the national suicide prevention hotline at 1-800-273-8255 or click on the following link for more information & resources: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
FACTS ABOUT SUICIDE:
- Generally speaking, suicidal people do not keep their plans to themselves.
- Most suicidal people communicate their intent sometime during the week preceding their attempt.
- It’s wrong to believe those who talk about suicide won’t do it.
- People who talk about suicide may try, or even complete, an act of self-destruction.
- Suicide is the most preventable kind of death,and almost any positive action may save a life.
- If people in a crisis get the help they need,they will probably never be suicidal again.
- It’s wrong to believe that confronting a person about suicide will only make them angry and increase the risk of suicide.
- Asking someone directly about suicidal intent lowers anxiety, opens up communication and lowers the risk of an impulsive act.
- Suicide prevention is everybody’s business, andanyone can help prevent the tragedy of suicide.
SUICIDAL BEHAVIORAL CLUES:
- Any previous suicide attempt
- Acquiring a gun or stockpiling pills
- Co-occurring depression, moodiness, hopelessness
- Putting personal affairs in order
- Giving away prized possessions
- Sudden interest or disinterest in religion
- Drug or alcohol abuse, or relapse after a period of recovery
- Unexplained anger, aggression and irritability
SITUATIONAL CLUES:
- Being
fired or being expelled from school - A recent unwanted move
- Loss of any major relationship
- Death of a spouse, child, or best friend (esp.
if by suicide) - Diagnosis of a serious or terminal illness
- Sudden unexpected loss of freedom/fear of
punishment - Anticipated loss of financial security
- Loss of a cherished therapist, counselor or
teacher - Fear of becoming a burden to others
TIPS FOR ASKING THE SUICIDE QUESTION:
- If in doubt, don’t wait, ask the question
- If the person is reluctant, be persistent
- Talk to the person alone in a private setting
- Allow the person to talk freely
- Give yourself plenty of time
- Have your resources handy: phone numbers,
counselor’s name and any other information that might help - Remember:
How you ask the question is less important than that you ask it.
SUICIDAL PEOPLE OFTEN BELIEVE THEY CANNOT BE HELPED, SO YOU MAY HAVE TO DO MORE
- The best referral involves taking the person
directly to someone who can help. - The next best referral is getting a commitment
from them to accept help, then making the arrangements to get that help. - The third best referral is to give referral
information and try to get a good faith commitment not to complete or attempt
suicide. - Any willingness to accept help at some time,
even if in the future, is a good outcome.
RESOURCES
- National Suicide Lifeline 800-273-TALK (8255)
- Samaritans 877-870-HOPE(4673)
- Brattleboro Retreat