If You Or A Family Member/friend Are In Crisis

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IF YOU ARE IN CRISIS AND NEED IMMEDIATE HELP: If you are thinking about harming yourself or attempting suicide, tell someone who can help right away:

Call your doctor’s office.
Call 911 for emergency services.
Go to the nearest hospital emergency room.
Call the toll-free, 24-hour hotline of the National Hopeline Network at 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) to be connected to a trained counselor at a suicide crisis center nearest you.
Ask a family member or friend to help you make these calls or take you to the hospital.



IF YOU HAVE A FAMILY MEMBER OR FRIEND IN A CRISIS
If you have a family member or friend who is suicidal, do not leave him or her alone. Try to get the person to seek help immediately from an emergency room, physician, or mental health professional. Take seriously any comments about suicide or wishing to die. Even if you do not believe your family member or friend will actually attempt suicide, the person is clearly in distress and can benefit from your help in receiving mental health treatment.

Suicide is a tragic and potentially preventable mental health problem. Most people who seriously consider suicide do not want to die. Rather, they see suicide as a solution to a problem and a way to end their anguish—they may feel hopeless, helpless, and worthless:

People who feel hopeless may believe that no one can help them with a particular problem.
People who feel helpless may be immobilized and unable to take steps to solve their problems.
People who feel worthless may be overwhelmed with a sense of personal failure.


According to the National Institute of Mental Health, more than 90 percent of people who kill themselves have a history of depression, another mental health illness (such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia), or an alcohol or drug problem. Other risk factors for suicide include:

Prior suicide attempt
Family history of mental disorder or substance abuse
Family history of suicide
Domestic violence, including physical or sexual abuse
Firearms (guns and rifles) in the home
Spending time in jail
Exposure to the suicidal behavior of others, including family members, peers, or in the media


recommended reading
These articles provide in-depth information and are written to help you make the best healthcare decisions for you and your loved ones.
• Suicidal Thoughts or Threats