NAMI reports that 46% of people who die by suicide already had a diagnosed mental health condition, and 90% experienced symptoms of a mental health condition. Suicidal thoughts should not be considered normal and likely indicate more serious issues. It can be scary if someone you love talks about having suicidal thoughts. It can be even scarier if you find yourself having them. These thoughts must be taken seriously. Some warning signs, or behaviors that indicate someone may be at risk for suicide include: • Threatening to hurt or kill oneself, talking about being a burden, trapped or feeling hopeless • Increasing alcohol or drug use - More than 1 in 3 people who die from suicide are under the influence of alcohol at the time of death. • Feeling agitated, showing rage, talking about revenge or acting recklessly • Giving away possessions or withdrawing • Dramatic changes in mood or sleep behaviors If you are identifying warning signs in someone you love, it is important to quickly reach out and make a connection. Experts say that simply feeling connected can save a life. Some tips for this often challenging conversation include: • Discuss your observations calmly • Ask the question without dread: “Are you thinking about killing yourself?” • Let the person know you are concerned and are willing to help • Express empathy for what the person is going through • Let the other person to do most of the talking • State that thoughts of suicide are often associated with a treatable illness • Tell the person that thoughts of suicide do not have to be acted on If the situation elevates to a suiciderelated crisis, it’s important to take immediate action. Unfortunately, mental health crises don’t always come with clear instructions on how to help. Some actions to take in a crisis include: • Call the suicide hotline 1-800273-8255. • Help the person think about people or things that have been supportive in the past - the things that are important to them and keep them here. If those supports are still available, help them reach out. • Reduce their access to highly lethal items. • Calmly request professional assistance (911/Mobile Crisis), especially if someone is talking about wanting to die/kill oneself, looking for a way to kill oneself, and expressing having no reason to live. Some things to avoid during a suicide-crisis: • Leave an actively suicidal person alone • Use guilt or threats to try to prevent suicide (i.e. You will go to hell, You will ruin other people’s lives if you die by suicide) • Agree to keep their plan a secret • Express any negative judgments Suicidal thoughts can be treated, and they can improve over time. Immediately connecting an individual in need with a mental health professional is critical. There is no wrong door at Broadlawns – we’re here to help! Our crisis team is available 24/7 to provide comprehensive emergency mental health services. The crisis team can be accessed by simply visiting Broadlawns’ Emergency Department or Broadlawns mobile crisis can be dispatched 24/7 in Polk County by calling 911 and telling law enforcement dispatch that there is a mental health crisis. Individual therapy is available through in-person and virtual visits for patients of all ages at Broadlawns Medical Center, call (515) 282-5695 for an appointment. Broadlawns Medical Center offers the most comprehensive delivery system for mental health services in Central Iowa. Our professionals are dedicated to excellence, compassion, and personalized care. To learn more visit www. broadlawns.org. 27
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