Recognizing the Signs That Matter

HOPE BEGINS WITH AWARENESS

Recognizing the Signs That Matter

WHAT CAN I DO?

Understanding the signs is only the first step.

Action is what saves lives. Suicide prevention does not require perfection...it requires presence, awareness, and a willingness to respond.

START THE CONVERSATION

If you notice changes, say something. Ask direct, compassionate questions such as, “Are you okay?” or “Have you been struggling lately?” You do not need the perfect words. What matters is showing that you see them and that they are not alone.

LISTEN WITHOUT JUDGMENT

Create a space where the person feels safe to speak openly. Avoid minimizing their experience or trying to immediately “fix” the situation. Listening with empathy can reduce feelings of isolation and help them feel understood.

TAKE ALL SIGNS SERIOUSLY

Do not assume someone is exaggerating or seeking attention. Changes in behavior, mood, or functioning should always be acknowledged. Trust what you are seeing, even if the person says they are fine.

Stay Connected

Consistent connection matters. A message, a call, or simply showing up can interrupt isolation. Small, repeated acts of care can have a significant impact.

Encourage Professional Support

Support them in seeking help from a qualified professional such as a therapist, counselor, or medical provider. If medications are involved, encourage open communication about any side effects or changes they are experiencing.

Be Aware of External and Physical Factors

Consider environmental stressors, recent life events, and even physical or neurological changes. If something seems off following a medication change or environmental exposure, advocate for further evaluation.

Reduce Access to Immediate Harm

If someone is in a vulnerable state, helping create a safer environment can be critical. This may include removing or limiting access to potentially harmful means and ensuring they are not left alone during high-risk moments.

Know When to Act Immediately

If someone expresses intent to harm themselves or is in immediate danger, do not leave them alone. Seek emergency assistance right away by contacting local emergency services or reaching out to the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741 in the United States.

HOPE BEGINS WITH AWARENESS

Recognizing the Signs That Matter

WHAT CAN I DO?

START THE CONVERSATION

LISTEN WITHOUT JUDGMENT

TAKE ALL SIGNS SERIOUSLY

Do not assume someone is exaggerating or seeking attention. Changes in behavior, mood, or functioning should always be acknowledged. Trust what you are seeing, even if the person says they are fine.

Stay Connected

Consistent connection matters. A message, a call, or simply showing up can interrupt isolation. Small, repeated acts of care can have a significant impact.

Encourage Professional Support

Be Aware of External and Physical Factors

Consider environmental stressors, recent life events, and even physical or neurological changes. If something seems off following a medication change or environmental exposure, advocate for further evaluation.

Reduce Access to Immediate Harm

If someone is in a vulnerable state, helping create a safer environment can be critical. This may include removing or limiting access to potentially harmful means and ensuring they are not left alone during high-risk moments.

Know When to Act Immediately

If someone expresses intent to harm themselves or is in immediate danger, do not leave them alone. Seek emergency assistance right away by contacting local emergency services or reaching out to the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741 in the United States.

Suicide Prevention PSA

Where every life has value because #THEYMATTER