We all have a role to play in suicide prevention

That's why we've built this online tool kit. We want to help you recognize signs of risk, know how to respond to someone at risk, and know how to connect to resources and supports that can help.

Suicide Prevention Awareness Month programs and resources are created and sponsored by Counseling and Psychological Services, which offers students access to professional mental health services, individual therapy, group therapy, interpersonal violence advocacy, and more.

• Things someone may say: talking or thinking about dying or suicide; mentioning ways to end their life or making plans to do so; thinking or talking about feeling alone, empty, or “over it;" saying people in their life would be better off without them.
• Things someone may do: saying goodbye to friends and family, sleeping less or more, eating less or more, withdrawing from activities or friends, not taking care of personal hygiene, increased use of alcohol or drugs, big changes in behavior, or acting recklessly.
• Ways someone may feel: extremely anxious, agitated, irritable, or angry; persistently sad or depressed; ups and downs in their moods; hopeless, trapped, or without purpose; like a burden to others; numb or not interested in the parts of life they usually enjoy.

• Show care and compassion. It is okay to say you care about them and want to help.
• Be direct. Ask and listen. It’s okay to ask, “Have you been thinking about dying?” or “Have you been thinking about killing yourself?” Asking directly will NOT put the thought in their mind.
• Be genuine.
• Do NOT attempt to argue with the person.

Starting a check-in conversation can be hard to do. It's okay if you don't know what to say. Here are some suggested conversation starters:

• “Seems like something’s up. Do you want to talk about it?”
• “Hey, we haven’t talked in a while. How are you?”
• “Seems like you haven’t been yourself lately. What’s up?”
• “I know you’re going through some stuff. I’m here for you.”
• “I’m worried about you and would like to know what’s up so I can help.”

(Adapted from Seize the Awkward)

• Crisis Text line: Text HOME to 741741
• Trevor Project Lifeline: A confidential suicide hotline for LGBTQ+ youth. Call 866-488-7386.
• TrevorText: Text START to 678-678.
• Veterans Crisis Line: For military service members, veterans, and family. Dial 988 and then press 1, or text 838255.