Reviewing the Risk
Ask
- Are you having suicidal thoughts?
If yes, develop a Safety Contract or GET HELP!
Current Suicidal Plan
- Do they have a plan? How detailed is their plan? Have they planned when, where and how?
Often the more detailed the plan the greater the risk
- Do they have the means to carry it out?
Disable the suicide plan if you are able to, but do not endanger yourself
Pain - emotional
- How desperate are they to control or escape the emotional pain? Encourage them to talk about how distressed they are feeling. This will help alleviate the emotional pain.
Resources
- Can they identify anyone who could help them or who has provided support to them in the past? (Family members? Teachers? Friends? Counsellors?)
Link to help - GET HELP NOW! YOU ARE NOT ALONE
Prior Suicidal Behaviour
- Have they ever attempted suicide before?
Find out who or what helped them get through the last time. If possible re-connect to this support
History of mental health issues
- Are they receiving or have they received mental health care in the past?
Link to a health care worker