Suicide Prevention

In most cases, when a person commits suicide, they have typically been struggling with depression and/or a substance abuse disorder and are resorting to suicide as an escape from their pain. But this tragic decision can always be avoided.

The licensed behavioral health professionals working for RWJBarnabas Health Behavioral Health and Addictions across New Jersey take suicide very seriously, and want you to know that there is always a way to prevent these tragedies. Most importantly, it’s critical to be aware of the warning signs of a person considering suicide.

Warning Signs

  • Changes in eating and sleep habits
  • Loss of interest in usual activities
  • Pulling away from friends and family members
  • Alcohol and drug use
  • Not caring about personal appearance
  • Fixation on death and dying
  • Stomachaches, headaches, and extreme tiredness
  • Apathy toward work, school, and community
  • Feelings of boredom
  • Lack of focus
  • Lack of response to praise

Shows signs of plans to commit suicide, including the following:

  • Phrases like: ”I want to kill myself," or "I'm going to kill myself,” or "I won't be a problem much longer," or "If anything happens to me, I want you to know...
  • Gives away favorite possessions and throws away important belongings
  • Becomes suddenly cheerful after a period of depression
  • May express bizarre thought
  • Writes one or more suicide notes

Threats of suicide communicate desperation and a cry for help. These behaviors and statements should be taken very seriously. Any person who expresses thoughts of suicide should be evaluated immediately.

What can you do to help prevent a person’s suicide before they receive medical attention?

  • Take the person seriously.
  • Involve other people. Contact friends and family members.
  • Express concern.
  • Listen attentively.
  • Ask direct questions.
  • Acknowledge the person's feelings.
  • Offer support.
  • Don't promise confidentiality.
  • Don't leave the person alone.
  • Take the person to the nearest emergency room, contact a mental health professional, or call 911 immediately.
  • Keep possibly harmful objects hidden.
  • Prepare for possible hospitalization, if the health care provider advises.

There are a variety of system-wide treatments available to patients dealing with suicidal thoughts or tendencies. Our RWJBarnabas Health Behavioral Health and Addictions facilities offer the support of everything from personalized inpatient care to outpatient treatment and support groups.

If you are concerned about a loved one who may be suicidal, or are suffering from suicidal thoughts yourself, do not hesitate to call our Behavioral Health Access Center. This center is available 24-hours-a-day, offering consultative support to help you find the right behavioral health care support you need. Call 1-800-300-0628 and learn more today.