Suicide Prevention
Suicide Prevention
If someone you know is struggling emotionally or having a hard time, you can be the difference in getting them the help they need. It’s important to take care of yourself when you are supporting someone through a difficult time, as this may stir up difficult emotions. If it does, please reach out for support yourself.
Warning Signs and What to Look for
Example: Talking about suicide, expressing feelings of hopelessness, and making comments like “nothing matters.”
Signs of depression: withdrawing from others, losing interest in hobbies and other parts of life
Physical changes, like sleeping more or less, eating more or less, or changes in hygiene.
Reckless or dangerous behavior.
Making preparations, like giving away belongings or saying goodbye to family and friends.
How to Help
Let the person know that you care
Be there to listen regardless of what the person says
Try not to scold, lecture, judge, or get upset
Encourage this person to talk about their feelings
Let the person know you want to listen and help
It’s not a joke: If someone you know is expressing thoughts of suicide, even slight references, don’t assume the person is joking or won’t do it.
Get Help: Connect this person with a counselor or professional right away.
Notice any changes: If you are concerned about a friend and that person suddenly appears much happier, this could be a warning sign that the person has made a plan for suicide. Contact a professional right away.
Resources
If you or someone you know is hurting themselves or having thoughts of suicide, please call:
The North Bay Suicide Prevention 24-hour Hotline (1-855-587-6373)
Sonoma County's 24-Hour Crisis Stabilization Unit (707-576-8181)
24-Hour National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) Español (1-888-628-9454)
When to call 911 and get help:
If you or someone has been severely injured
If the injury may be life-threatening
If you think you may hurt yourself, or someone else may hurt you or themselves
If you are thinking of suicide
Call 911
Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (1-800-273-8255 ) for English
(1-888-628-9454) for Spanish
Sonoma County Mental Health Emergency Services: (707-576-8181)
Sonoma County Department of Behavioral Health Services: (707-565-6900)
Crisis Text Line: Text “Home” to 741741
Teen Line: Call (1-310-855-4673) 6pm-10pm or Text “Teen” to 839863 6pm-9pm
California Youth Crisis Hotline: (1-800-843-5200)