Omaha Nation Community Response Team
How to help a friend who is contemplating suicide:
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Keep calm
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Be direct. Talk openly and matter-of-factly about suicide. Ask questions like, "Are you considering suicide?" "Do you have a plan?" "Will you talk to someone who will help?"
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Be willing to listen. Allow expressions of feelings.
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Get involved. Become available. Show interest and support.
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Don't dare him or her to do it
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Don't act shocked. This will put distance between you.
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Never be sworn to secrecy. Seek support. Your friend might get mad at you, but they will be alive!
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Offer hope
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Take action. Remove means, such as guns or stockpiled pills.
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Get help from a hospital, family physician, counselor, clergy, teacher, advisor, psychiatrist, etc. Take help to the person if possible
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Call 911 if danger is immediate
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Call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK to speak with someone confidentially