By Luis Chacon

In our lives, we often encounter experiences that shape us and remind us of the importance of being prepared to face difficult situations. As someone who has lived in multiple Salesian orphanages throughout Mexico and Colombia, I have witnessed the painful struggles of young people who have attempted to end their lives. However, I am grateful to share that, in the cases I have encountered (3), all three individuals survived and are now healthy and with their families. These experiences have profoundly impacted me and have compelled me to raise awareness about suicide prevention and the significance of mental health support.

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, and with a deep desire to equip others with the knowledge I wish I had possessed years ago, I would like to share insights gained from a suicide prevention training course I undertook with The QPR Institute. I believe that as members of the Salesian Family, which is dedicated to education and caring for others, it is crucial for us to have the tools to assist in times of crisis, even if they are difficult to discuss.

Before delving into the practical notes, let us acknowledge the resilience and strength of the human spirit. The fact that the individuals in these cases survived highlights the importance of early intervention and the impact of compassionate support. With this in mind, I offer the following practical guidelines for suicide prevention:

Recognizing Risk Factors: Familiarize yourself with common risk factors that may contribute to suicidal thoughts, such as a history of substance abuse, physical illness or disability, exposure to bullying behavior, mental health conditions, recent loss of a loved one, access to harmful means, relationship problems, and previous suicide attempts.

Signs to Watch For: Be attentive to both direct and indirect verbal signs, such as expressions like “I wish I was dead,” “I want to die,” or “I will kill myself if ___ does not happen.” Indirect signs may include statements like “I’m tired of life,” “I can’t do this anymore,” or “My family would be better without me.” Additionally, pay attention to behavioral signs such as previous suicide attempts, untreated depression, social isolation, sudden changes in religious interests, unexplained anger or irritability, and sleep disturbances.

Suicide Warning Signs: Educate yourself about the warning signs associated with suicidal ideation. While each situation is unique, some common indicators include withdrawal from activities, giving away possessions, sudden calmness following a period of distress, and expressing feelings of hopelessness or being trapped.

Supportive Actions: When encountering someone who may be at risk, there are several key actions to take:

• Take care of your own needs: Prioritize your well-being to ensure you can provide effective support.
• Stay calm: Creating a calm environment can help the person feel safe and open to conversation.
• Get others involved: Seek assistance from trusted individuals who can contribute to the support network.
• Listen non-judgmentally: Provide a compassionate and non-critical space for individuals to express their thoughts and emotions.
• Provide the “Suicide Prevention Lifeline” number: Share helpline resources that offer immediate support.

Avoid Certain Actions that May Exacerbate the Situation:

• Do not make this about you: Focus on the individual in need and avoid shifting the attention to yourself.
• Do not give advice (until asked for): Allow the person to express themselves before offering guidance or solutions.
• Do not rush the person: Patience is crucial, as the individual may need time to open up and share their feelings.

Do not use guilt or threats: Avoid using guilt-inducing or threatening statements, such as “You will go to hell” or “You will ruin other people’s lives if you die by suicide,” as these can intensify feelings of distress.

QPR Method: The Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) method can be a valuable approach in suicide prevention:

• Question: Ask direct or indirect questions about suicide to initiate the conversation and lower anxiety. (For example, ask, “Are you thinking of suicide?” or “Do you ever wish you could go to sleep and never wake up?”)
• Persuade: Listen attentively, withholding judgment or condemnation. Encourage the person to seek help and support. Your role is to guide them towards agreeing to receive assistance from a mental health professional or counselor.
• Refer: Connect the person with a competent local mental health professional or counselor. Conduct research to compile a list of reliable resources and professionals who can provide appropriate care. If needed, reach out to your family doctor, helpline services, community crisis lines, or mental health organizations for referrals.

Remember, being proactive in suicide prevention is vital, and it is better to have a friend or loved one who may be initially upset with your intervention than to lose them to suicide. By staying informed, practicing active listening, and taking appropriate action, we can make a significant difference in someone’s life.

If you are interested in further suicide prevention training, I encourage you to visit the website of The QPR Institute at http://courses.qprinstitute.com, where you can access valuable resources and courses.

Let us continue to raise awareness about mental health, break the stigma surrounding suicide, and provide the support and care needed to foster hope, resilience, and wellbeing in our communities. Together, we can save lives and make a positive impact on the lives of those who may be struggling.

If you or someone you know is in crisis or experiencing suicidal thoughts, please reach out to the appropriate helpline or emergency services in your country. Help is available, and there is always hope for a brighter future.