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Warning signs: People who are at risk for attempting suicide frequently talk about their thoughts with others, sometimes in off-handed, frustrated or even joking ways.
- A sudden change in future plans, giving things away, or talk like, "after I'm gone," or "when I leave."
- Noticeable changes in daily routine such as eating, sleeping or overall behavior, etc.
- The risk is even higher if: If a person has attempted suicide before, or has exhibited dangerous behaviors such as cutting, binge drinking or drug use, or has lost another friend or family member within the last year.
- If the "person" I am worried about is really me: Talk about how you are feeling right away to a counselor, parent, teacher, clergy person, or other responsible adult who can take action to help you. Remember that help is available!
- Call a local crisis hotline or Samaritans Hotline number.
- The Samaritans: (Fall River/New Bedford area) 508-673-3777 or 508-999-7267
- New Bedford Crisis Center: 508-996-3154
- National: (For Web site visitors outside of our area.)
- Call the Covenant House "Nine Line" at 1-800-999-9999
- For parents: A very good, thorough, source of information about the dangers of suicide by The American Academy of Pediatrics:
- http://www.aap.org/advocacy/childhealthmonth/prevteensuicide.htm
- Suicidal.Com: A web site (posted by an individual) to help those at risk, their families and loved ones to understand suicide. - http://suicidal.com/
- If you are worried about someone else who has indicated that they are thinking about suicide: Learn the difference between facts and myth. Talking about suicide with someone at risk does not prompt him or her to consider suicide even more. That is a myth.
- A young person's thoughts about committing suicide will not "go away" if you avoid talking about it. That is a myth.
- Children and teens that have either attempted suicide in the past, who may be threatening to do so now, are not just looking for attention. That is a myth. It is very important to seek professional help immediately.
- If you are a parent or concerned adult, talk with the young person at risk and seek professional help immediately.
- If someone you care about is considering suicide, listen to him or her, express to them your concern, stay calm, stay close and seek help.
- For parents: A very good, thorough, source of information about the dangers of suicide by The American Academy of Pediatrics: http://www.aap.org/advocacy/childhealthmonth/prevteensuicide.htm
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