How to help a person who is depressed or feeling suicidal?
When someone says he or she is thinking or planning on suicide or says things that sound as if the person is considering suicide, it can be very depressing. You may not be sure what to do to help. Taking action is always the best option. Understand that the person is going through a tough phase and needs the help of a professional along with his family to pull him out of the same.
How to help a person who is depressed or feeling suicidal?
Get professional help : Provide the person the help he or she needs. Report the situation and the details of the patient to a crisis line for suggestion and referrals. Focus on the person to see a mental health professional, help locate a treatment facility, or take them to a doctor’s appointment.
Follow-up on treatment : If the doctor mentions or focuses medication, make sure your friend or loved one takes it as directed. Be aware of possible side effects and be sure to notify the physician if the person seems to be getting bad. It often takes time and persistence to find the medication or therapy that’s right for a particular person.
Be proactive : Those contemplating suicide often don’t believe they can be helped, so you may have to be more proactive at offering assistance.
Encourage positive lifestyle changes : Encourage the patient to opt fora healthy diet, ample of sleep, and getting out in the sun or into nature for at least 30 minutes each day. Exercise is also extremely prominent as it releases endorphins, relieves stress, and promotes emotional well-being.
Focus safety plan : Focus creates a set of stairs he or she promises to follow during a suicidal crisis. It should identify any triggers that may lead to a suicidal crisis, like an anniversary of a loss, alcohol, or stress from relationships.
Move potential means of suicide: Ensure that the patient is away from pills, knives, razors, or firearms. If the person is to take an overdose, keep focus on medications locked away or give out only as the person needs them.
Continue your support over the long haul : Post the immediate suicidal crisis has gone stay in touch with the person, periodically checking in or dropping by. Your potential support is important to ensure your friend or loved one remains on the recovery track.
