in crisis?

It is important to take all suicidal comments seriously and to make appropriate referrals.

• Talking about suicide will not plant the idea in a person's mind.
• Feeling isolated increases the likelihood of suicide.
• The more developed the suicide plan, the greater likelihood for suicide.

• Reach out and encourage the student to talk about his/her feelings
• Tell the student about your concern for his/her well-being
• Talk about suicide if that is on the student's mind
• Call 911 if there is imminent danger of harm. Otherwise, be sure that the person is not left alone and he/she talks to a professional.
• Frequent contact, even for a few minutes, begins to relieve feelings of isolation (encourage the student to be in contact with family, friends, counselor).