Suicidal thoughts or behaviors are more common than suicide deaths and are signs of extreme distress. Suicidal thoughts and behaviors are not harmless bids for attention and should not be ignored.
Be There for someone with thoughts of suicide
This could mean: being physically present for someone, speaking with them on the phone or any other way that shows support for the person at risk
An important aspect of this step is following through with the ways in which you say you will be able to support the person – do not commit to anything you are not willing or able to accomplish.
If you are unable to be physically present with someone with thoughts of suicide, talk with them to develop some ideas for others who might be able to help as well. Look for others who are willing, able, and appropriate to be there. Listening is very important during this step. Find out what and who they believe will be the most effective sources of help.
Being there for someone with thoughts of suicide is life-saving.
Feeling Connected
Increasing someone’s connectedness to others and limiting their isolation (both in the short and long-term) has shown to be a protective factor against suicide.
Thomas Joiner’s Interpersonal-Psychological Theory of Suicide highlights connectedness as one of its main components – specifically, a low sense of belonging.
In the Three-Step Theory (or Ideation-to-Action Framework), David Klonsky and Alexis May theorize “connectedness” is a key protective factor, not only against suicide as a whole, but in terms of escalation of thoughts to action. Their research has shown connectedness acts as a buffer against hopelessness and psychological pain.
When someone experiences this state, paired with perceived burdensomeness (tied to “connectedness” through isolating behaviors and lack of sense of purpose) and acquired capability (lowered fear of death and habituated experiences of violence), their risk becomes elevated.
By “being there,” we have a chance to alleviate or eliminate significant factors.
Risk factors vary with age, gender, or ethnic group and change over time.
Some factors that increase an individual’s risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors:
Depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders
Substance abuse disorder
Chronic pain
Prior suicide attempt
Family history of suicide
Family violence, including physical or sexual abuse
Firearms in the home
Having recently been released from jail or prison
Exposure to suicidal behavior of others, such as family members or peers
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.
1-800-273-8255