Suicidal Behavior: General Information
When someone suffers from major depression or bipolar disorder
(manic-depression), he or she may develop thoughts of suicide or feel that
life is not worth living. If you are feeling suicidal, or someone close to
you is, it is important to recognize these feelings as dangerous symptoms
of a treatable mental illness. Therefore, it is essential to seek help
right away.
What to do if you feel suicidal or someone close to you does:
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tell a
mental health professional immediately
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tell a trusted support person in
your life—a family member or friend
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call 911 or go to your nearest
emergency room
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make sure guns and old medicines are not available
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keep
credit cards, checkbook, and car keys with a trusted person until the risk
of suicide has passed
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Warning signs of suicide: Although it can
be hard to tell how close a person is to attempting suicide, the following
are some common indicators that he or she may be in serious danger:
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feelings of extreme hopelessness
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rehearsing suicide or seriously discussing specific
methods or plans
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making arrangements for others’ welfare after the
suicidal person is gone (e.g., a suicidal person who starts to give away
cherished personal possessions, takes out a new life insurance policy, or
suddenly writes a will)
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Please click here for
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For more information on suicidal behavior, we recommend:
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