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.
For more information visit the GVSU Counseling Center website at
www.gvsu.edu/counsel. Also visit www.save.org and www.mentalhealth.org/suicideprevention for additional resources.
