• Suicide Prevention and Resources

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    The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a 24-hour, toll-free, confidential suicide prevention hotline available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.

    Warning Signs of Suicide

    • Unbearable feelings: extreme feelings of hopelessness, despair, self-doubt.
    • Taking care of business: making end of life plans, preparing wills, giving away valued possessions.
    • Rehearsing suicide: discussing suicide methods, purchasing weapons or acquiring large quantities of medication.
    • Drug or alcohol use: can cause impulsive behaviors.
    • Isolation: cutting off social connections with friends, family, quitting job.
    • Sudden sense of calm: a person who was recently feeling upset or hopeless suddenly seems very calm and settled. It might be a sign that he or she has decided on a plan to complete suicide.

     Suicide Prevention Plan

    It’s very helpful to have a safety plan ready before thoughts of suicide occur.

    • Make a Plan for Life. Make a plan to stay alive and follow it—seek Help!
    • Stay in contact with your doctor. Always have your doctor's phone number with you, as well as a suicide hotline number, 713–970-7000.
    • Stay in contact with trusted friends. Develop a list of phone numbers with those you trust and keep it with you.
    • Recognize symptoms for what they are. Remember feelings are not facts. Suicidal feelings are not your fault and they are only a symptom of your illness.
    • Write down your thoughts. Spend time each day writing down things and people that you appreciate and bring you joy. Refer to this when you feel low, sad, or suicidal. A mood tracker is helpful.
    • Connect with other people socially. When you are feeling suicidal, don’t be alone for long periods of time. Seek trusted friends.
    • Avoid drugs and alcohol. Consumption of drugs and alcohol can lead to actions that could be very dangerous.
    • Know when it’s best to go to the hospital. Ask for help if you need it!
    • Understand your health coverage. If you have insurance, call the number on the back of your card for providers.
    • Keep yourself safe. Make sure you don’t have access to guns or weapons.
    • Give yourself time to get better.
     

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