Everyone is aware of the tragedy of suicide.

It may have affected those you know. I

t is important to know the signs.

If you see these and tell the right people, you may save a human life.

Behaviours to make you think.

• Talking about death or suicide
• Lacking interest in the future
• Dropping out of activities
• Withdrawing from family or friends
• Giving away prized possessions
• Taking risks
• Saying goodbye like they won’t see you again

Risk factors

It is more likely for someone to suicide given certain behaviours:

• Access to guns and pills
• Drug and alcohol use
• Previous suicide attempts
• Feeling alone
• Feeling angry
• Trauma and neglect
• Loss of a parent or parental fighting
• Exposure to bullying
• Family history of suicide

How to help

• Ask questions. Ask them if they are thinking about death or hurting themselves.
• Encourage them to get help. And offer to help them find it!
• Know it’s not your job to take the place of a therapist.
• Remove dangerous items from them and ask their parent or guardian to help.
• Do not make light of suicidal comments or thoughts. Take all threats seriously.

Ultimate message

It is difficult to feel so bad that you would want to leave this world. It is not easy to see someone you love hurting. The thing is, it is not for you to solve the problem on your own. You may try, and you may help. Your help is appreciated. You are appreciated. But the best course of action is to refer them to someone trained to deal with the situation.

Here is a link to a template you may find useful on your journey: www.sprc.org