Laker Help Link
Dealing with Feelings of Suicide
Symptoms of possible suicidal behavior:
Individuals who become severely depressed can be suicidal. If someone you know displays any of the following risk factors, they may be experiencing suicidal thoughts:
- Increased isolation/social withdrawal, or a significant change in personality
- Giving away possessions and off-handed comments about not being around or death
- See death as the only way to end suffering or problems
- Feelings of failure to live up to others' or one's own expectations
- Suicidal plans and/or previous suicide attempts
What to do when someone is suicidal:
- It is OK to ask about suicidal thoughts directly. You DO NOT increase the risk of suicide by asking about it. People having suicidal thoughts are often relieved to be asked.
- Discuss the risk factors you have observed.
- Never agree to keep serious suicidal thoughts in confidence. It is important that a student with serious suicidal thoughts meet with a counseling professional as soon as possible to receive the support he/she needs. Contact a counselor if you are worried about a particular student and want assistance and clarification. This is a situation you don't want to handle alone.
- Contact university personnel (Dean of Students Office, Campus Safety, Counseling Center, Housing staff). They will assist you in how to handle the situation.
On-Campus Resources:
GVSU Counseling & Career Development Center
616.331.3266
www.gvsu.edu/counsel
Other Links:
www.save.org
www.mentalhealth.org/suicideprevention
Free Crisis Hotline:
1.800.GRADHLP (1.800.472.3457)
www.gradhelp.org
Page last modified September 22, 2010
