Suicide Facts / Frequently Asked Questions

What if I have a friend who is having problems?
Talk to your friend about your concerns. Ask your friend to immediately go with you to a responsible adult. Do not try to handle a situation of this kind by yourself! Do not keep this a secret, even if your friend asks you not to tell.  You have to be willing to risk your friendship to save a friend.

How should I get help for a friend and what should I do for them?
If you think that a friend is thinking about suicide - get help immediately! Talk to your friend about your concerns and then go with that friend to a responsible adult for help. This could be a teacher, parent, a trusted adult, a pastor in the community, etc. Ask that adult to get your friend professional help. Always take a suicide threat seriously. It is a cry for help. And never keep a suicide threat a secret! Be the best friend that you can be by guiding your friend to get the help that he or she needs.

Is suicide really preventable?
Absolutely, if we can recognize the signs of concern and get appropriate help.  That is why we must educate ourselves to the warning signs and behaviors associated with possible suicidal ideation.  With appropriate professional intervention, suicide can be prevented.