How to help people with suicidal tendencies?
Become more aware of suicide and its warning signs in order to provide effective support to the victim
When you encounter someone who is suicidal, it is important to take the situation seriously and provide appropriate help. Here are some steps you can take to help someone with suicidal tendencies:
1) Engage in frank and compassionate communication: Approach the person with a compassionate and non-judgmental attitude. Let them know you care and are there to listen to their thoughts and feelings. Encourage them to be open about their ideas and this requires you to be a good listener.
2) Ask direct questions: Gently ask if they are having suicidal thoughts or plans. It’s a common misconception that asking about suicide encourages suicidal thoughts, when in fact discussing it openly can provide comfort and hope for help.
3) Be with them: Don’t leave them alone if they suddenly express thoughts of suicide or self-harm. Stay with them or make sure someone stays with them until professional help arrives
4) Encourage professional help: Suicidal thoughts are a sign of a deep emotional struggle that often requires professional intervention. Encourage the person to seek help from a mental health professional, a therapist. Help them find resources and schedule an appointment if they want.
5) Make access to means of suicide impossible: If you know of certain means (eg, firearms or poisons, etc.) that someone can use to harm themselves, make sure that Try not to make them easily accessible. Including a trusted family member or friend can make this goal more easily achieved.
6) Support system: Encourage the person to reach out to friends and family for emotional support and, if possible, take the initiative. Rebuilding trust in relationships can change the outlook of such individuals.
7) Be patient: Overcoming suicidal thoughts can be a long and difficult process. Continue to offer your help, even if the person’s progress is slow or they initially resist help.
8) Self-Awareness: Become more aware of suicide and its warning signs and risk factors. By understanding this better, you can help someone more effectively