Prevent Suicide Hawai‘i Taskforce

24/7 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.

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