This issue is much more complex than the number of people. It’s people. It’s dad’s and mom’s children’s grandparents, siblings as well as friends and partners.

Here are a few simple steps that you could do in order to aid anyone who is considering taking their own life:

1. Know what to look out for.

Know the warning symptoms. Individuals who are contemplating self-harm or suicide may discuss feeling helpless and trapped or in immense pain. They might also isolate themselves from family or friends and experience dramatic mood changes; or increase their consumption of substances such as alcohol or drugs. 

A person who is considering suicide could also write or talk about their desire to commit suicide. But warning signs don’t always come cut and dry.” We recommend that people look for signs of change,” says Andy Cartmill an instructor of suicide and intervention strategies and senior program educator at Addiction Services for Washington County, Oregon. “Trust your gut. If you believe that something’s going on, there’s nothing wrong with being open and telling”I’ve observed a change. Are you okay?”

2. Support without judgment or anger.

If your friend hasn’t contacted you, be sure to contact them. Let them know that you value them and that you’re worried. It’s not the time to get in a panic, fight with them, or attempt to convince them to change their mind.”We are prone to fix things, and then point out the strengths of people and ask”What’s your wife’s opinion?’ What about your children What about your kids?'” Cartmill says. “It’s possible that they do not consider these as advantages. They could think, ‘I’m doing me or my family members or spouse the favor of taking them out of the responsibility.'”Simply be attentive. Allow them to speak freely and without judgment.

3. Ask questions specific to your situation.

If you’re unsure whether your friend is at risk or at risk the best thing you can do is to ask. People who are at the greatest likelihood of taking their own life within the next few years are likely to have a strategy and the means to implement the plan into the action phase, a timeline, and an intention. Inquiring questions can help you determine the risk that is most immediate and the answers could guide your next steps: “Do you have plans to hurt or kill yourself?”Do You have the ability to access weapons or other items that could hurt yourself?”Have you considered how or when you’d accomplish it?”Are you contemplating suicide?”If you aren’t sure what a response or statement is, you should ask for clarification. This might be uncomfortable or even intimidating however, it’s essential, to be honest, and direct. Be assured that speaking about suicide will not start a seed in the mind of someone else.“Research repeated over and over suggests that it is not likely to occur,” Cartmill says. “That’s something that people are scared about … “If I ask this question, do I intend to cause them to think about suicide or suicide?’ And the answer is not.”

4. It’s okay not knowing what to say.

For those who aren’t certified healthcare specialists or counselors for the crisis, the area isn’t easy to navigate. It’s fine that you don’t have the ideal words or ideas for talking about. It’s your primary duty to listen and acknowledge that they’re suffering. This means that you shouldn’t change the subject or try to minimize the pain.”You don’t need to become an authority, you don’t. Being honest and listening with respect is fine,” Cartmill says. “It’s okay to say to people that what you’re saying scares me. I want you to be okay and then go to the next step.”

5. Offer professional assistance or help to locate the solution.

This is not an attempt to transfer them to someone else but rather seeks to refer them in touch with the right doctor or therapist who is equipped to assist them with their discomfort. If they’re going to a specialist, urge them to connect with them right away. It’s even possible assistance to take them to their appointment. If they’re not receiving supervision from a counselor or a doctor assist them in finding an experienced mental health professional or contact the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255). It’s a no-cost, 24-hour service that provides people considering suicide and the people who care for those who suffer from it with help and access to local sources.6. Be aware that if it is urgent or crisis you can go to the emergency room. If you’re not afraid to make an appointment for a fractured bone or an allergic reaction, do not hesitate to commit suicide. If you are in a situation, it’s not a matter of waiting. Suicide doesn’t care. But a lot of people do.

Make sure you have the number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on your phone: 800-273-TALK (8255). In an emergency, having this number in the hands of yourself or someone you love could make all the difference. The thought of suicide or suicidal ideas can be overwhelming or frightening However, experts agree: Hope and recovery are feasible. There are a variety of ways to treat yourself, with many at little or free of charge. Start by paying close attention to any warnings, and contacting for help when you require it.