Suicide Prevention
If you are in crisis:
Call the Washington County Crisis Line at 503-291-9111 or the National Suicide Hotline at 800-273-8255 (press 1 for veterans or service members).
Facts About Suicide
- Talking about suicide responsibly does not increase risk.
- Those who are suicidal are almost always undecided.
- Parents are often unaware of a child’s suicidal thoughts or behavior.
- There are almost always warning signs that someone is thinking about suicide.
- Suicide is preventable!
Warning Signs
- Someone threatening to kill him/herself
- Someone looking for the means (e.g., gun, pills, rope, etc.) to kill him/herself
- Someone talking or writing about death, dying or suicide
- Hopelessness
- Rage, anger, seeking revenge
- Acting reckless/engaging in risky activities
- Feeling trapped, like there is no way out
- Increasing alcohol or drug use
- Isolation/Withdrawing from friends, family or society
- Anxiety, agitation, unable to sleep or sleeping all the time
- Dramatic changes in mood
- No sense of purpose in life
How You Can Help
Show you care: “I’m concerned about you.”
- Listen — without judging or giving advice.
- Take all talk of suicide seriously.
- Stay calm and stay with the person.
Ask directly about suicide: “Are you thinking about suicide?”
Get help. Do not leave the person alone.
- Take action now.
- Do not promise secrecy.
- Call the Washington County Crisis Line at 503-291-9111.
- Call 911.
- Go to the nearest emergency department.
