Suicide Prevention
Suicide is rarely a death wish, and it is usually not an impulsive act. There is hope...Intervention can help. Young people who get help are later appreciative to be still alive.
What Can You Do?
Look for these warning signs:
- Depression, which can be challenging to recognize, is an important key. Signs of depression that should not be dismissed include excessive sleep, frequent headaches and body aches and pains, anxiety, lethargy, and not being able to concentrate. Ironically, once a suicide plan is in place, a sense of calmness appears, and the signals of depression disappear.
- A change in behavior or personality - A normally outgoing person may become withdrawn, while a customarily reserved person may become wild and reckless.
- Dramatic changes in mood
- Withdrawal from friends, family, school and activities
- A person making "final arrangements" needs to be listened to. A suicidal person may suddenly start giving away possessions.
- Do not ignore verbal messages from threats like "I'll just kill myself" and "I wish I were dead" to more disguised comments like "I'm no good," "I can't do anything right," and "I'm just a burden to everyone." Take the threat (no matter how small) seriously.
- Is there a history of previous suicidal attempts? Four out of five suicide victims attempted it at least once before.
TAKE ACTION!!!
- Take any hint of suicide seriously. Saving a life is more important than saving a friendship.
- Talk and listen to the person -- communication is a key to suicide prevention. This person needs someone to hear his/her pain.
- Do not minimize his/her problems or place shame on the individual. These are natural feelings of hopelessness that need to be dealt with.
- Reassure the person that help is available, depression is treatable, and the feelings of suicide are temporary.
- GET HELP! Get the person to a competent professional as quickly as possible. Notify the University of Dallas Police (972-721-5305 or 972.554.2911), the UD Health Clinic (972-721-5322), the Counseling Center (214.364.4045), the Student Affairs Office (972-721-5323), or a Resident Assistant.
RESOURCES
University of Dallas Red Folder
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Suicide Awareness Voices in Education