What can you DO
?
Make a safety plan: • Always keep fire arms locked away and stored unloaded • Store medications out of reach of children and teens • Store chemicals and cleaning products in a safe way • Identify a good support system
Virtual considerations: Identifying risk factors virtually may be more difficult. Conversations should remain the same, but seeking help may be different. When speaking with a person in crisis, keep them on the phone and engaged with you as you work to get assistance for them. Don’t hang up or disconnect until help has arrived. Use statements like: “I want to help you.” “You matter to me.” “Your life is important.” “I'm going to stay with you until we can figure something out together.”
7
There is no wrong way to talk to someone or offer help. Many may fear saying or doing the wrong thing. Together, we can remove the shame and stigma and save lives. As we face the tragedy of suicide, we must REACH beyond what we have done before. REACH is for everyone – helping individuals who are offering support to a loved one who is struggling and helping those who are struggling themselves seek support.
When we REACH to those in need we:
R E A C H
REACH out and ask, “How are you…really?” Listen and offer hope. ENGAGE them about possible risk factors and changes in their life to better understand their pain. ATTEND to their safety. Unless you are concerned about your safety, stay with them. CONNECT them to resources such as supportive friends and family, professionals or a crisis line. HELP them make and maintain a plan to stay safe. Encourage them to share it with others.
When we REACH because we are hurting, we:
R E A C H
REACH to a loved one or someone we trust. Don’t be afraid to reach out — now. ENGAGE those we trust and discuss life changes and risk factors that are contributing to our pain. ATTEND to our safety and surroundings. Contact someone who can stay with us if we are worried about ourselves. CONNECT with family, friends or appropriate professionals. Contact a crisis line. Be as honest as we can so they can help. HELP others understand how they can help us stay safe. Share a safety plan if we have one.
