Survivors of Suicide Attempt
- Survivors
- Survivors of Suicide Attempt
The number one indicator of a future suicide attempt is a previous attempt. That’s why it’s imperative to develop a safety plan, seek help and increase contact with someone who has attempted suicide.
Someone who has attempted suicide may feel a sense of isolation and be reluctant to share their thoughts and feelings with someone else — especially if they’ve experienced past crises, like hospitalization, related to their suicide attempt.
Family, friends and community members can take steps to reduce the risk of suicide for someone who has previously attempted or considered suicide. Assist them in developing a safety plan that includes:
- Reducing or stopping the use of alcohol and drugs
- Identifying and utilizing coping skills and personal resources
- Strengthening social contacts and support systems
- Recognizing and responding constructively to triggers or warning signs of distress
Safety Planning
A safety plan is a critical tool for staying safe while experiencing a crisis. Taking proactive steps to write down people, strategies and resources you can turn to makes them easier to access during times when thinking clearly can be difficult. Watch this video to learn more about safety plans, then make your own. Remember to include the 988 Lifeline in your plan — you can call, text or chat at any time.
Further Resources
- Talking About Attempts
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Discussions and Interviews with Survivors
- After an Attempt Brochures
- A Journey Toward Health and Hope: Your Handbook for Recovery After a Suicide Attempt
- Stories of Hope and Recovery
- The Way Forward
- How to Talk to a Child About a Suicide Attempt in Your Family