September is Suicide Prevention Month, and the Indiana Department of Health shares information and facts to help raise awareness on suicide and how to help prevent it.
According to the Indiana Department of Health, some of the warning signs for suicide may not be obvious, but remembering the acronym FACTS may be helpful in looking for signs.
F for Feelings, or specifically expressing hopelessness about the future.
A is for Actions, or displaying severe or overwhelming pain or distress.
C is for Changes, if they are showing changes in their behavior, such as isolation from friends and social activities, anger, hostility, or changes in sleep patterns.
T is for Threats, including talking about, writing about, or making plans for suicide.
S is for Situations, as in someone is experiencing situations that can serve as triggers for suicide, including experiencing a loss, personal humiliation, trouble in school, at home, or with the law.
If you notice someone struggling with some of these signs, you can encourage them to share how they’re feeling and to seek treatment. You can offer help in getting them professional support, and maintain your connection and check in with them.
There is help available. The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline has trained crisis specialists available 24/7 and can be reached by dialing 988. Additionally, Indiana residents can receive support by dialing 211.
The National Suicide Hotline can be reached at 1-800-273-8255, or by texting IN to 741741. The Trevor Project hotline, specifically geared towards LGBTQ+ youth, who experience higher rates of suicide than the general population, can be reached at 866-488-7386 or by texting “Trevor” to 202-304-1200.
