Prevent Suicide Hawai‘i Taskforce
Crisis Lifeline Resources
Every life is valuable and worth fighting for. Even in your darkest moments, hope and help are available. You are not alone in your struggle, and there are people who care about you and want to support you. Remember that it takes courage to reach out for help, and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Together, we can work towards a future where suicide is no longer a leading cause of death. You are loved, you are valued, and you are important.
Strengths, Risk Factors, & Warning Signs
It's important to note that everyone's experience is unique, and not everyone who experiences these risk factors will attempt suicide, and not everyone who exhibits protective factors will be free from suicidal ideation. It's essential to seek help if you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
There are several common risk and protective factors associated with suicide.
What are your Sources of Strength?
Positive coping and
problem-solving skills
Access to mental health treatment and support services
Strong support network of
family and/or friends
Cultural Connection
Resilience and ability to adapt to change
Sense of purpose and
hopes for the future
Connection to Community
Protective Factors for Suicide Prevention
Individual & Interpersonal
Individual strengths
Coping and problem-solving skills (“life skills”)
Hope and goals for the future
Connectedness to others
Family cohesion
Peer support
Supportive adults
Organizational & Community
Trained staff
School, workplace, community connectedness
Norms supporting help-seeking
Access to mental health & other supportive services
Supportive protocols, policies, funding
Safe messaging
What are the Risk Factors?
Risk Factors Associated with Suicide
Individual & Interpersonal
Prior suicide attempt
Mental health & substance-abuse issues
Loss
Family history of suicide and/or mental health issues
Changes in family structure
Organizational & Community
Lack of supportive protocols, policies, laws
Lack of helping services/ (or lack of access to existing services)
Stigma associated with help-seeking
Unsafe messaging & media reporting
Know the Warning Signs
Common Warning Signs
Threatening to, or talking about, killing oneself
Looking for ways to kill oneself
Talking/writing about death, dying, or suicide
Difficulty at work/school
Neglect of appearance/hygiene
Withdrawing from activities, family/friends
Sudden improvement in mood after being down/withdrawn
Feeling uncontrollable anger, hopelessness, or trapped
Giving away favorite possessions or repaying debts
Increasing substance use
Being unable to sleep, or sleeping all the time
Self Care
Mindful Meditation
Focus your attention on the present.
Gratitude Practice
Take time each day to reflect on what you are grateful for.
Exercise
Regular exercise: yoga, running, strength training, or individual/team sports.
Self Compassion
Be kind and compassionate to yourself. Treat yourself as you would treat a friend who is struggling.
Journaling
Write down your thoughts and feelings. No need to self edit as its only for you.
Creative Expression
Drawing, painting, making or listening to music, writing are all creative ways to express yourself.
Social Connection
Connect with friends, family, or a support group. Social support can help reduce stress and promote a sense of belonging.
Finding Your Own
Remember that self-care is an individualized practice, and what works for one person may not work for another. It's important to prioritize self-care in your routine and find what works best for you.
Click here for more self-care tools. (:
Safe Messaging
Here at the PSHTF, we believe in the importance of sharing stories to raise awareness on the issue of suicide prevention. In the same breath, it is important to share our stories in a manner that is safe for those who may be at risk for suicide. The following are resources open to all audiences, but are especially recommended for groups/organizations developing and implementing suicide prevention campaigns and activities.
Training Services
In Hawai‘i, four people die by suicide each week. That's why suicide prevention training is crucial for individuals to learn how to identify and intervene in suicidal situations, to reduce suicidal behaviors and improve mental health outcomes, and ultimately to help save lives. Effective suicide prevention training can empower individuals to make a significant difference in the lives of those around them, and combat the tragic reality of suicide in Hawai‘i and beyond.