With all of the recent media coverage about the devastating loss of Robin Williams, we at Open Doors thought it would be helpful to provide some resources from the Suicide Prevention Center to help prevent suicide and support those individuals who deal with mental illness. Mental illness is a recoverable disease and there is always hope, help, and support to manage symptoms and lead a healthy and happy life. If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, please reach out!
*The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-TALK (8255). It is a free, 24-hour hotline available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.
*Some Suicide Warning Signs according to the Suicide Prevention Resource Center are:
- Talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself
- Looking for a way to kill oneself, such as searching online or obtaining a gun
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
- Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
- Talking about being a burden to others
- Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
- Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Withdrawing or feeling isolated
- Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
- Displaying extreme mood swings
1. If the danger of self harm seems imminent call 911
2. Stay with the person or make sure the person is in a safe place until you can get further help
3. Call the Lifeline or Maricopa County Crisis (602-222-9444) for further guidance
4. Ask for a referral to a mental health provider
5. Stay in contact with the person and check in with them to see how they are doing, listen without judging and encourage them to follow up with a mental health professional
For more information or resources, please contact Open Doors Counseling at 602-222-9444.
Source: Suicide Prevention Resource Center. www.sprc.org
