"What Should I Do"

Have you ever heard someone say that people who talk about suicide won't actually go through with it? That's a myth--people who talk about it may be likely to try it. If you have a friend who is talking about suicide, don't wait to see if he'll start to feel better. Warning signs such as talking about suicide should be taken very seriously. Other warning signs include:

     • Self-destructive behavior, such as taking drugs
     • Talking about death
     • Withdrawal from family and friends
     • Changes in appearance or eating or sleeping habits
     • A lack of interest in favorite activities
     • Giving away favorite possessions
     • Talking about feeling helpless, hopeless, or worthless

     The important thing is that you notify a responsible adult. Although it may be tempting to try to help your friend on your own, that may not be possible, and the delay in getting an adult's help could be risky to your friend's well-being.
                                          

KNIGHT-RIDDER NEWSPAPERS. My Friend Is Talking About Suicide. What Should I Do? 28 February 2002. 8 march 2011 <http://discoverer.prod.sirs.com.wf2dnvr6.webfeat.org/discoweb/disco/do/article?urn=urn%3Asirs%3AUS%3BARTICLE%3BART%3B0000151428>.

    Most of use do not know how to deal with a suicidal friend. We may not see the warning signs or take them seriously, and this is why the epidemic is raising at dangerous rate. We all want to help someone we care about but, often times we just cannot do it on our own. You can help them by getting an adult rather than taking it upon yourself.