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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 3 of 3. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by Jazzed on May 30, 2005, at 10:21:02
I found this on the web, at the American Association of Suicidology, in case anyone is unfamiliar:
UNDERSTANDING AND HELPING THE SUICIDAL PERSONBe Aware of the Warning Signs
Are you or someone you love at risk of suicide? Get the facts and take appropriate action.
Get help immediately by contacting a mental health professional or calling 1-800-273-8255 for a referral should you witness, hear, or see anyone exhibiting any one or more of the following:
Someone threatening to hurt or kill him/hersel, or talking of wanting to hurt or kill
him/herself.Someone looking for ways to kill him/herself by seeking access to firearms, available pills,
or other means.Someone talking or writing about death, dying or suicide, when these actions are out of the
ordinary for the person.Seek help as soon as possible by contacting a mental health professional or calling 1-800-273-8255 for a referral should you witness, hear, or see someone you know exhibiting any one or more of the following:
Hopelessness
Rage, uncontrolled anger, seeking revenge
Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities, seemingly without thinking
Feeling trapped - like there's no way out
Increased alcohol or drug use
Withdrawing from friends, family and society
Anxiety, agitation, unable to sleep or sleeping all the time
Dramatic mood changes
No reason for living; no sense of purpose in lifeWhat To Do
Here are some ways to be helpful to someone who is threatening suicide:
Be direct. Talk openly and matter-of-factly about suicide.
Be willing to listen. Allow expressions of feelings. Accept the feelings.
Be non-judgmental. Don’t debate whether suicide is right or wrong, or whether feelings are good or bad. Don’t lecture on the value of life.
Get involved. Become available. Show interest and support.
Don’t dare him or her to do it.
Don’t act shocked. This will put distance between you.
Don’t be sworn to secrecy. Seek support.
Offer hope that alternatives are available but do not offer glib reassurance.
Take action. Remove means, such as guns or stockpiled pills.
Get help from persons or agencies specializing in crisis intervention and suicide prevention.
Be Aware of FeelingsMany people at some time in their lives think about completing suicide. Most decide to live because they eventually come to realize that the crisis is temporary and death is permanent. On other hand, people having a crisis sometimes perceive their dilemma as inescapable and feel an utter loss of control. These are some of the feelings and thoughts they experience:
Can’t stop the pain
Can’t think clearly
Can’t make decisions
Can’t see any way out
Can’t sleep, eat or work
Can’t get out of depression
Can’t make the sadness go away
Can’t see a future without pain
Can’t see themselves as worthwhile
Can’t get someone’s attention
Can’t seem to get control
Posted by daisym on May 30, 2005, at 13:05:13
In reply to Meant to help, Warning signs (((Might Trigger))), posted by Jazzed on May 30, 2005, at 10:21:02
I feel this huge need to respond but I'm not sure what I want to say. Perhaps it is a warning to not get freaked out too soon or too quickly. Or perhaps it is to not assume that the person isn't getting help in some way or another. This is, of course, if you are the listener.
If you are the one with the feelings, I think it is very helpful to be allowed to write it down completely or talk about what you are thinking about. It does no good to tell someone to "not think that way." Taking something all the way to the conclusion and aftermath is a very effective reality check.
I'm wondering why you posted the list. Is someone in your life suicidal? Or, are you still feeling that way? I know you've been through a rough couple of days. I hope things get better soon.
Posted by Jazzed on May 30, 2005, at 18:48:23
In reply to Re: Meant to help, Warning signs (((Might Trigger))), posted by daisym on May 30, 2005, at 13:05:13
> I feel this huge need to respond but I'm not sure what I want to say. Perhaps it is a warning to not get freaked out too soon or too quickly. Or perhaps it is to not assume that the person isn't getting help in some way or another. This is, of course, if you are the listener.
>
> If you are the one with the feelings, I think it is very helpful to be allowed to write it down completely or talk about what you are thinking about. It does no good to tell someone to "not think that way." Taking something all the way to the conclusion and aftermath is a very effective reality check.
>
> I'm wondering why you posted the list. Is someone in your life suicidal? Or, are you still feeling that way? I know you've been through a rough couple of days. I hope things get better soon.Thanks Daisy,
No, I'm okay, thanks for your concern. I feel pretty good tonight. I just knew there were several people on the forum who have depression, and that it's okay for us to discuss it openly if the need comes about. I'd guess people who feel that way need a safe place to get support and not feel judged, and this forum has been awesome for expressing less than desirable feeling. You all are incredible!
(((((((HUGS to you all)))))))))
Jazzed
This is the end of the thread.
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