Emergencies and Providing Help

Recognizing if you or your loved ones need help is oftentimes difficult, but treating mental health as early as possible prevents further mental health deterioration and possible suicide. The initial discomfort is well worth the potential benefit.

Behavioral Changes and Habits To Watch For:

• Emotional outbursts

• Sleep problems

• Weight/Appetite Changes

• Substance Abuse

• Negative comments made passively about themselves or their state of life

• Suicidal Thoughts

• Self-inflicted harm (such as scratches on their body)

• Negative thoughts about the future

Remember, not everyone is the same, but if you have even the slightest suspicion, ask them or consult with a professional. The potential benefits far outweigh anything else. 

For emergencies, call this hotline or discuss the situation with a professional immediately. Do not wait!

How to Approach Someone You're Concerned About:

Asking questions directly is the most efficient way to inquire about a person’s mental health. Once poor mental health or suspicion of mental illness is established, a professional should be contacted to take the next steps with therapy and recovery.

QPR:

If you suspect somebody you know might be suicidal, use QPR; (QUESTION, PERSUADE, AND REFER)

• Question: Although it can be hard, you need to ask a person if they have thoughts of suicide. This can be done indirectly in phrases such as “Do you ever feel as if you don’t want to wake up?” or more directly in phrases such as “Have you ever thought about killing yourself.” While it is challenging, the more direct the question is, the more effective you will be in your questioning. 

• Persuade: If the person has been having suicidal thoughts and/or you fear for that person’s safety, the next step is to persuade the person to get professional help and in the context of a student, to get in contact with a trustworthy adult. The person might not want to get the attention of an adult so you should go with them for support.

• Refer: In some cases, you might need to contact a trustworthy adult alone, despite the wishes of your friend. While you might betray your friend's trust at the moment, remember that you could be saving your friend’s life, and getting help will be best in the long run.