If someone you know is struggling emotionally or having a hard time, you can be the difference in getting them the help they need. It is also important to take care of yourself when you are supporting someone through a difficult time. Get help for yourself as well.
Some warning signs may help you determine if a friend, loved one, or even a stranger, is at risk for suicide, especially if the behavior is new, has increased, or seems related to a painful event, loss, or change. If you or someone you know exhibits any of these, seek help by calling the Lifeline. People will:
When talking with with friends and loved ones a specific kind of communication can assist. Some suggestions may not feel very comfortable or may seem intrusive. However, very direct communication is helpful to the person you are assisting. Here are some suggestions in
Hearing someone talk is different from actively listening to what that person is saying. Active listening requires concentration and understanding. Improving your listening skills is easy to do with practice and these helpful tips.
When you are dealing with hearing loss, communication can become challenging. Communicating is a two way street and when one half of that is not working optimally, there are active listening strategies that you can use to help bridge that gap. Of course, these listening strategies won’t replace hearing aids, but should be used in conjunction with them to make your communication and effective as possible. Keep these ideas in mind when interacting with others:
Sadie Penn talks about youth suicide and advocates for breaking down barriers about keeping silent.
Dylan Gunaratne from Cal State talks about his experience working at the crises line.
Shawna Percy talks about her personal experience with suicide and knows that helped people help people.
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