WHAT TO LOOK FOR TO PREVENT SUICIDE
Good relatives watch out for friends and family.
While you can’t always tell, most people show some sign when they’re thinking about suicide. When we know the signs to watch for in ourselves or others, we can get support from people trained to help.
When to start a conversation
Talk to your friend or relative if you notice them:
- Talking, joking or researching about death.
- Feeling hopeless, depressed, anxious, angry or humiliated, or saying they are a burden to others.
- Experiencing changes in their personality, outlook on life, or academic or work performance.
- Sleeping way more than usual, or hardly ever.
- Isolating themselves from others or avoiding activities they used to enjoy.
- Using more alcohol or drugs, especially if they’re talking about suicide or self-harm while under the influence.
- Behaving recklessly or giving away possessions.
It's a sign of strength to ask for help.
Resources for tribes and partners
The “Native and Strong” toolkit includes videos, social media posts, posters and digital graphics. It’s free to behavioral health care providers, schools, youth programs and others to help prevent suicide among Native people in Washington.