How to Help Someone Who is Suicidal
by Most people who commit suicide give warning signs they are at risk, particularly in the few days before they make the attempt. Knowing what to do to help someone who is suicidal can save a life. Here is a simple method that you can use that may well save someone’s life.
I attended a suicide prevention workshop a number of years ago where they taught the “QCR” method of dealing with someone who is a potential for taking their own life. I’ll share here some of the simple things I learned there that may be of help for others who come into contact with someone who is suicidal.
Most people who attempt either successfully, or unsuccessfully to commit suicide have given clues that they may do something to harm themself over a few days in advance. Despondency, loss of something or someone important to them, statements of anger at themself or others, giving away possessions, writing goodbye letters to important people in their lives, are some such indicators. Not always will the person say what they are planning openly, however. Because of this, it is important to be on the watch and to implement the “QPR” method of suicide prevention if there is any question of a person possibly harming themselves. These are quite simple, and pretty much anyone can put them to good use…
1. The “Q” stands for “Question”.
It is always okay to ask a person who seems particularly despondent or hopeless, “Are you thinking of ending it all?” or “Are you feeling suicidal?” Whether they are, or are not, they will know you care for them and have their best interest at heart. Not asking directly may make it so you miss the clues they are giving that they are in serious trouble. So question them directly.
2. The “P” stands for “Persuade”.
If they are considering suicide, you need to persuade them to not do so until you’ve helped them find help first. This persuasion should be ongoing. If necessary, stay with them physically until you can achieve the final “R” in this simple method…
3. The “R” stands for “Refer”.
In most cases, you will not be able to give the person all the assistance they will need to deal with an issue serious enough for them to seriously seek to end their own life. You can, however, refer them to a teacher, a school nurse, a doctor, a pastor, or a counselor, who may refer them even further to obtain what assistance is needed to prevent them from acting on a suicidal impulse. Often, brain chemistry is involved, and medications can be of great help. Sometimes, a safe place, such as a hospital setting can provide a place where they can deal with their depression and whatever issues are pushing them in a lethal direction.
In the end, suicide is “a permanent solution to a temporary problem”, one that the person would deeply regret making if they can get through their current situation successfully.
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