In respect to Suicide Awareness Month and Mental Health Awareness Week, we could like to provide some information and ways we can support each other. |
Take a moment to connect and reach out to someone who may need help. A simple phone call, message, or hug can go a long way towards helping someone realize suicide is not the answer. Encourage understanding and changing the way we talk about suicide by promoting hope can create a more compassionate society where those in need feel more comfortable with seeking help. |
Sharing personal experiences, insights, and stories of people with lived experience of suicide can be extremely powerful in helping others understand suicide better and encourage people to reach into support someone, and for individuals to reach out themselves. If you or someone you know are having thoughts of suicide, know there is hope and help is available. |
You can help prevent suicide by knowing the warning signs: Talking about wanting to die Looking for a way to kill oneself Talking about feeling hopeless or having no purpose Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain Talking about being a burden to others Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs Acting anxious, agitated or recklessly Sleeping too little or too much Withdrawing or feeling isolated Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge Displaying extreme mood swings |
If you are concerned someone is at risk for suicide: Ask them if they are thinking about killing themselves. Research shows that asking directly does not put the idea in their head or make it more likely that they will attempt suicide. Stay with the person; do not leave them alone. Remove any firearms, alcohol, drugs, or sharp objects that could be used in a suicide attempt. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) Or text HOME to 741741 for support and local resources. Take the person to an emergency room or seek help from a medical or mental health professional. |
If you are concerned about yourself or a student, IHCC counselors are also here to help. To learn more about our services, including crisis resources, please visit our counseling website at https://www.inverhills.edu/counseling/. |
Counseling Website » |
Aside from the Inver Hills Counseling Center, here are some additional resources you may find helpful: National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Suicide Prevention Resource Center |
