Self-harm can be considered a risk factor for suicidal ideation and suicide. However, there are many other risk factors to look out for. These can include:
Knowing what to say when someone has suicidal thoughts can be incredibly difficult, and that’s completely normal! Despite feeling uncomfortable, it’s essential to talk to and connect with your loved one, understand their feelings, and show empathy, support and presence. Here are a few things you can say:
Because this is such a sensitive situation, it’s essential to treat it carefully. Here are a few things to avoid when talking to your loved one who is experiencing suicidal thoughts:
SPTS is dedicated to increasing awareness, saving lives and reducing the stigma of suicide through specialized training programs and mental health resources that empower students, parents, school staff and community members with the skills needed to help youth build a life of resilience.
Are you concerned that someone you know maybe at risk for suicide?
Get to know the FACTS or warning signs:
Feelings
Expressing helplessness, sadness, feeling like a burden, emotional exhaustion and hopelessness.
Actions
Displaying severe/overwhelming pain or distress, aggression, risky behavior, online suicide searches.
Changes
Showing worrisome behavioral cues or marked changes in behavior. This includes withdrawal from friends or changes in social activities, anger or hostility, or changes in sleep.
Talk / Threats
Talking about, writing about, or making plans for suicide.
Situations
Experiencing stressful situations including things that involve loss, change, personal humiliation or disciplinary actions.
If you notice any of these warning signs, you can help!
Cuyahoga County's Just in Time Training is a web based service program designed to connect foster parents, kinship or other caregivers with training, peer experts and other resources. Questions are answered and practical solutions to care for children are discussed - all from the comfort of your home or office.
If you have difficulty accessing any material on this site, please contact us in writing and we will work with you to make the information available. You can direct your request to JITSupport@USF.edu.