People in a crisis often lose perspective and the ability to solve problems in an organized and realistic manner.  They may resort to less effective and less flexible coping responses that can make the crisis worse.  Sometimes a crisis is so severe that the person’s ability to cope is overwhelmed, and the individual becomes suicidal.  The suicidal person who insists that the suicidal thoughts be kept secret is not dealing constructively with the crisis.

Suicidal Statements
Most people who are suicidal will communicate their thoughts and feelings, often directly.  Suicidal people frequently express helplessness and hopelessness regarding their current stresses and the future.  Special “good-bye” statements or actions, such as giving away prized possessions, might also indicate a suicidal crisis.  ALL SUICIDAL COMMUNICATIONS MUST BE TAKEN SERIOUSLY.

Depression and Other Risk Factors for Suicide

• Depressed mood
• Loss of interest or pleasure in most activities
• Extreme changes in sleeping patterns
• Inattention to appearance
• Extreme guilt, self-blame, or feelings of worthlessness
• Heightened anxiety
• Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

Additional Factors that Increase the Risk of Suicide

• Alcohol or other substance abuse
• High levels of anger or rage
• Recent, overwhelming losses; traumatic stress
• Previous suicide attempts
• Exposure to someone else’s suicide attempt

How to Respond

DO

• Listen.
• Help the person explore feelings.
• Widen options and explore alternatives for problem solving and positive action.
• Ask direct questions about the person’s intentions.  Ask if the person is considering suicide.  Ask if they have a plan.
• Communicate your concern for the well being of the person.
• Recommend that the person contact a mental health professional or call one yourself.

DO NOT

• Do not tell them to “go ahead.”
• Do not say everything will be all right.
• Do not tell them about someone who “has it worse.”
• Do not leave the person alone if you believe the risk of suicide is immediate.
• Do not swear secrecy to the suicidal person.

Emergency Procedures & Information

Contact Counseling and Consultation

Safety Resources for Faculty and Staff: www.asu.edu/vpsa/safety/.

To view general campus emergency procedures, visit the ASU DPS web site at www.asu.edu/dps/emergency/emergency.htm.

After weekday office hours and on weekends, the EMPACT 24-hour Crisis Line is available for helping students in crisis.

EMPACT Crisis Line (480) 921-1006