Know the signs of Suicide.
Warning Signs
- Threatens suicide
- Talks about wanting to die
- Shows change in behaviour, appearance, mood
- Abuses drugs, alcohol
- Deliberately injures self
- Appears depressed, sad, withdrawn
- Is suddenly happy and at peace when that is not their demeanor.
- Is happy or “on” all the time
Verbal Signs
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I can’t go on anymore.
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I wish I was never born.
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I wish I were dead.
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I won’t need this anymore.
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My parents won’t have to worry about me anymore.
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Everyone would be better off if I was dead.
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Life sucks. Nobody cares if I live or die
Looking for More Helpful Resources?
What can you do if someone may be thinking about suicide? TALK about it.
Tell someone if you are having thoughts of suicide. Tell someone in the clearest way you can.
See – Actions
Hear – Talk
Sense – Feelings
Learn – Life situations
Ask directly, “Are you thinking about suicide?”
Use their actions, how they are talking, how you are interpreting their feelings or life situation to introduce the question if you have trouble just asking the question.
We are all capable of listening. Let the individual with thoughts of suicide, talk. Listen without judgement. Do they have a plan?
Sometimes being able to talk situations out helps. Listen as long as you feel comfortable.
Connect the individual with someone who can keep them safe.
If the individual has a plan or is in immediate danger call 911.
If they need support connect them with people who can provide support or use a hotline.
Support Resources : You’ve Got Options
Support can range from emergency care to e-health and apps. Choose the support that best fits the current situation.
Crisis: Call 911
If the individual has a plan or is about to hurt themselves or someone else, call emergency services. They are available any time of day and will connect the individual with a hospital or emergency care service.
Supports
People who make great support are family doctors, health care professionals, counselors, family or caregivers. Use supports when there isn’t a likelihood of immediate harm but the individual needs to seek help to get things under control.
211/811
Find services near you.
Hotlines
Get coping strategies and local resources.
Crisis Services Canada
1.833.456.4566
Text 45645
Distress Line (AB)
1.780.482.4357
Kid’s Help Phone
1.800.668.6868
Text 686868
Access 24/7
1.780.424.2424
E-Health and Apps
Wellness Together Canada is an e-health program launched nationally to support mental health. There are apps out there that can help you. A lot of support apps are built with activities, journals, and reminders to have you keeping track of your present state as a training tool to help you get help faster. Use key works like suicide, anxiety or depression for recommended apps.
