Crisis
If you feel that you can’t keep yourself safe or if self-harming has gone too far, visit A&E or call: 999
What to do in a Crisis
What is a crisis? Crisis can mean different things to different people. When we use the term crisis we mean overwhelming thoughts and/or feelings to either hurt yourself, hurt somebody else or you are planning or attempting suicide.
Click here to go straight to support for the under 18s
Depending on how severe the situation is for you (or someone you care for) will decide on who it is best to contact. The key aim is to get to the right help at the right time that supports you to deal with the situation as safely and as calmly as possible. There is no step by step approach to accessing crisis support, each situation is as unique as the individual experiencing a crisis. The severity of the impact upon the person will determine which organisation or service listed below you contact.
Support for the under 18s
Having thoughts about wanting to die and suicide are painful and can effect anyone of us. The Young People’s Pathway identifies the steps that can be taken to access support. It has been created for young people up to the age of 18, and it explains clearly the support that is available. There is no step by step approach to accessing crisis support, each situation is as unique as the individual experiencing a crisis. If you are worried about a young person, or worried about your own thoughts, please tell someone who you can trust, or contact any of the numbers from the Pathway.
What is suicide?
Suicide is the act of ending one’s own life on purpose.Most people thinking about suicide do not want to die; they want to stop the pain and distress they are experiencing.
If you feel suicidal, don’t hide it, talk to someone you trust or phone a local service or helpline
Suicide affects all of us, no matter our age, gender or culture.
Possible signs that someone you know may be at risk of suicide:
If they have made a previous suicide attempt.
If they talk about ‘not wanting to go on’, ‘ending it all, ‘not wanting to wake up’ or ‘wanting to die’
If they can’t see a way out of their current crisis / distress / situation.
If they have been through stressful life events or have experienced a trauma or significant loss and don’t seem to be coping.
If they are drinking, smoking or using drugs more than usual.
If they have started putting things in order, e.g. sorting life insurance, wills, pet care or childcare or giving away their belongings
If they show noticeable changes in behaviour, appearance or mood; (distracted, sad, distant, not taking care of themselves) or a sudden uplift in mood following a period of depression.
How can I help someone?
By talking about our suicidal thoughts with someone we can share our feelings and concerns and through this, we can identify ways forward. It is comforting to know that we are not alone and that help is available.
- Talking about suicide saves lives
- If you are worried about someone talk to them, it could save their life
Together we can make a difference!
If you are worried about a friend, colleague, neighbour or family member they may really appreciate you asking how they are. You don’t have to be able to solve their problem, or even to completely understand it, but listening to what they have to say will let them know you care.
Don’t keep it all in …. Talk about it!
If you are feeling suicidal, the best thing you can do is talk. Speak to someone you trust or make contact with a service who will offer you support.
If you are worried that someone is suicidal, ask them. It could save their life!
If you want to know how to help – Suicide prevention training can help you save a life!
