PART A - ACTIONS TO TAKE IN A SUICIDE SITUATION
1.
General.
The warning signs of suicide cannot be overemphasized. Learning how to respond to such a situation
will enable the chaplain assistant to deal effectively with potential suicide cases. The following
behavioral actions are danger signals which require a caring, supportive response by the chaplain
assistant in an effort to learn more about the person's intentions:
A threat or statement, in which the desire to die is expressed, should always be taken seriously.
A previous suicide attempt is often a cry for help and must be remembered in the light of a
possible further attempt.
Depression or low mood swings are often a part of a suicidal person's behavior.
Clearly observed marked changes in a person's behavior is a warning that frequently occurs prior
to a suicidal attempt.
Making unusual arrangements like disposing of prized possessions or making apologies to other
persons, can be clues that should be taken seriously.
A suicide plan - time, place, means, note, etc.
Positive actions are those responses which show empathy for an individual such as caring, compassion
and affirmation of people and places.
2.
Caring.
Caring attitudes can be adopted and reinforced after we understand how important it is to care about
people when the normal emotional balance of their lives is threatened. The basis of caring is listed
below:
To care is to know about another person. Knowing a person helps detect symptoms that could
lead to suicide.
To care is to respect another person. How important is respect? Just recall the last time someone
ignored you or discounted your input.
To care is to be devoted to another person.
To care is to take risks with another person.
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