Suicide Prevention

Suicide Prevention is EVERYONE'S business

Suicide is the second leading cause of death for college students. While in college, it is not unusual for a student to encounter challenges which feel overwhelming. Sometimes these challenges leave a person wondering if it is worth continuing to live, as people are usually in unbearable emotional pain and suicide seems like the only solution. Most people who are suicidal want to live but are unable to find another way to cope with their thoughts or feelings. Paying attention to the warning signs can save a life. In fact, over 75 percent of college students will turn to a friend when in distress (Jed Foundation, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention). If you, or someone you know, have thoughts of suicide, help is available.

Common Warning Signs of Suicide can be remembered with the phrase “IS PATH WARM”

IDEATION
Thinking or talking about killing oneself
SUBSTANCE ABUSE
Increased or excessive use of alcohol or other drugs
PURPOSELESSNESS
Feeling a lack of purpose or no reason to live
ANGER
Uncontrolled anger, rage, or seeking revenge
TRAPPED
Feeling there is no way out of the situation
HOPELESSNESS
Feeling no hope for the future or like things will not get better
WITHDRAWAL
Removing oneself from friends, family and usual activities
ANXIETY
Worry, fear, agitation, inability to sleep or excessive sleeping
RECKLESSNESS
Engaging in risky activities
MOOD
Dramatic mood changes-most often depression

 

Know the resources and how to get help:

Tell the person you care about them and are concerned. Ask them directly if they are thinking about suicide. Ask them if they have a plan, and bring them to CAPS.

Offer to make an appointment with them.

You can call CAPS  during and after business hours  at  561-297-3540  and give the phone to the person in distress. Stay with them while they talk on the telephone.

You can call the after-hours line to determine what to do, if needed.

Click here for additional details on emergency services and resources.

IF IMMEDIATE SAFETY FOR YOURSELF OR ANOTHER IS A CONCERN, CALL 911

Online Resources: