Counseling Services

Helping a Friend

Suicide

Suicide is the second leading cause of death among college students. Most people who contemplate suicide are ambivalent about killing themselves and typically respond to help. Suicidal students usually attempt to communicate their feelings prior to attempting suicide.

High-Risk Indicators Include:

• Feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and futility
• A severe loss or threat of loss
• A detailed suicidal plan
• History of a previous attempt
• History of alcohol or drug abuse
• Feelings of alienation and isolation

Do:

• Take the student seriously - 80 percent of suicides give warning of their intent.
• Acknowledge that a threat of or attempt at suicide is a plea for help.
• Be available to listen, to talk, to be concerned, but refer the student to the Crisis Line of the Fox Valley 630-482-9393 or to Counseling Services (630-844-5416).
• Take care of yourself. Helping someone who is suicidal is hard, demanding, and draining work.

Don't:

• Minimize the situation or depth of feeling, e.g., "Oh it will be much better tomorrow."
• Over commit yourself and, therefore, not be able to deliver on what you promise.
• Ignore your limitations.

Additional Resources For Suicide Intervention/Prevention:
Suicide Prevention Services in Batavia offers free depression screenings, support services and individual counseling. 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433). They can be reached at 630-482-9696 or visit their web site at www.spfsv.org