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At least 70% of all people who attempt suicide give some clue as to their intentions before they make an attempt. Becoming aware of these clues and the severity of the person's problems can help us prevent such a tragedy.

If a person you know is going through a particularly stressful situation - perhaps having difficulty maintaining a meaningful relationship, adjusting to a new environment, having consistent failure in meeting their preset goals, or even experiencing stress at having failed an important test - watch for other signs of crisis.

Many persons convey their intentions directly with statements such as "I feel like killing myself" or "I don't know how much longer I can take this." Others in crisis may hint at a detailed suicide plan with statements such as "I have been saving up my pills in case things get really bad," or "Lately I have been driving my car like I really don't care what happens" or "life does not seem worth living anymore."

In general, statements describing feelings of depression, helplessness, extreme loneliness, and/or hopelessness may suggest suicidal thoughts. It is important to listen to these "cries for help" because they are usually desperate attempts to communicate to others the need to be understood and helped. We need to listen to their "cries for help."

Often, persons thinking about suicide show outward changes in their behavior. They may prepare for death by giving away prized possessions, making a will, or putting other affairs in order. They may withdraw from those around them, change eating or sleeping patterns, or lose interest in prior activities or relationships. A sudden, intense lift in spirits may also be a danger signal, as it may indicate the person already feels a sense of relief knowing the problems will "soon be ended."

Most suicides can be prevented by sensitive responses to the person in crisis. If you think someone you know may be suicidal, you should:

• Remain calm. In most instances, there is no rush. Sit and listen - really listen to what the person is saying. Give understanding and active emotional support for his or her feelings.
• Deal directly with the topic of suicide. Most individuals have mixed feelings about death and dying and are open to help. Don't be afraid to ask or talk directly about suicide.
• Encourage problem solving and positive actions. Remember that the person involved in emotional crisis is not thinking clearly. Encourage him or her to refrain from making any serious, irreversible decisions while in a crisis. Talk about the positive alternatives, which may establish hope for the future.
• Get assistance. Although you want to help, do not take undue responsibility by trying to be the sole counsel. For example, if you live in a hall, talk to your Resident Assistant or your First Year Adviser. Let them know about your concerns. Seek out resources, which can lend qualified help, even if it means breaking confidence.

Let the troubled person who is suicidal know you care and are concerned. Let them know that you care and are so concerned that you will arrange help beyond that which you can offer.

In a situation like suicide, where a person's life is in danger, it is much more important to help someone get help than it is to keep things confidential. In fact, by keeping such a serious issue to yourself, you may be doing something that is not helpful.

If you know someone you suspect may be suicidal and you would like to consult about what to do and how to approach the situations etc., please contact us at the Student Counseling Service.