This is the second in a series of articles on dealing with an emergency involving a highly suicidal person. In How to Help a Suicidal Person (1) we covered issues such as not leaving the potentially suicidal person alone, what to say to the person, and the avoidance of physical contact when dealing with a highly disturbed or threatening person. This blog covered issues 1 through 3.
Today we look at further coping techniques beginning with:
4. Seek immediate help.
Without leaving the person alone (see 2), phone the Mental Health crisis number in your area. If you do not know the number, phone 911 to seek backup support. Alternatively you may be able to take the person to a hospital emergency department. The latter depends on the situation: if the person resists, do not insist or make any sudden movements or physical contact (see 1).
5. If the person is consuming alcohol or drugs, try to talk them out of consuming any more.
Again, this needs to be done in a non-threatening and respectful way (see 3). Keeping the dialogue going between you is one of the best ways to slow down any drinking or postpone further drug taking. Talking can be a useful distraction from these activities.
6. Try to ensure the person does not have ready access to some means of taking their lives.
If possible, keep the person away from knives and other weapons, as well as places of potential danger, such as balconies.
7. Identify if the person is at risk
Ask the following question directly: “Are you having thoughts of suicide?” Contrary to popular belief, asking a person this question will not precipitate a suicidal act. On the contrary, you can assess the risk far better by not avoiding the issue at hand. The person concerned will know that you are taking them seriously and not trying to skirt around the subject. Asking this question signals to them that you care, and this is precisely what this person needs at this time.
8. Assess how high the risk is.
Ask them do they have a plan of action. If so, ask them to describe in detail just how they plan to end their life. This will give you an idea of the seriousness of the situation. Generally speaking, the greater the level of planning, the greater the risk. This information is of use as it can be passed on to mental health professionals when the crisis is over. Ask if they have tried to take their life before. Again, previous attempts point to a higher likelihood of a successful suicide.
Next blog, further help in dealing with potential suicide.
Contact Beth McHugh for further assistance regarding this issue.
Related articles:
How to help a Suicidal Person (1)
Suicide: What do you think about it?
Suicide: My thoughts on one case