Suicide Prevention

If you or someone you know needs help, please know that you are not alone. Crisis lines, counselors, intervention programs, and more are available to you, whether you are in crisis yourself or concerned about someone else. Spend some time learning about one or more of these resources and visit the Resource page to download a flyer:  

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)  

Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741-741 

The Trevor Project (for LGBTQ Young People): 1-866-488-7386 

Friendship Line (for Older Adults): 1-800-971-0016  

Trans Lifeline: 1-877-565-8860 

Teen Line: Call 1-800-852-8336 (from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. PST) 

Pain isn’t always obvious, but most suicidal people show some signs that they are thinking about suicide. The signs may appear in conversations, through their actions, or in social media posts. If you observe one or more of these warning signs, especially if the behavior is new, has increased, or seems related to a painful event, loss, or change, step in or speak up.  

What to Do 

• If any of these signs are present, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273-8255 or 988. You can also contact the local Inland SoCal Crisis & Text Line at (951) 686-HELP (4357) 
• Talking about death or suicide 
• Seeking methods for self-harm, such as searching online or obtaining a gun 
• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live 
• For emergencies dial 911 
• For more information on Knowing the Signs of Suicide please visit suicideispreventable.org 

Many of us have been touched by the tragedy of suicide. We may have lost someone close to us or been moved by the loss of someone we may have never met. When a suicide happens, those left behind often experience deep shock. Even if they knew the person was struggling, they may not have expected suicide would be the result. However, many people who find themselves in a suicide crisis can and do recover. Suicide can be prevented, and everyone can play a role by learning the warning signs of suicide and finding the words to reach out to someone you are concerned about. 
 
Pain isn’t always obvious. Yet most people who are considering suicide show some warning signs or signals of their intentions. The signs or changes in behavior may appear in conversations, through their actions, or in social media posts. These are of most concern if the behavior is new, has increased or seems related to a painful event, loss, or change. Some signs to look for include: 

• Talking about wanting to die or suicide 

• Looking for a way to kill themselves 

• Feeling hopeless, desperate, trapped 

• Giving away possessions 

• Putting affairs in order 

• Reckless behavior 

• Uncontrolled anger 

• Increased drug or alcohol use 

• Withdrawal 

• Anxiety or agitation 

• Changes in sleep 

• Sudden mood changes 

• No sense of purpose 

 
If any of these signs are present, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255: 

• Talking about death or suicide 
• Seeking methods for self-harm, such as searching online or obtaining a gun 
• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live 

Learn more about the warning signs at www.SuicideisPreventable.org and download the e-card for quick reference.  

“Are you thinking of ending your life?” Few phrases are as difficult to say to a loved one. But when it comes to suicide prevention, none are more important. Here are some ways to get the conversation started. 

1. Start the Conversation 

Visit the Reach Out section of this website for a list of national and local resources  

Before starting a conversation with someone you are concerned about, be prepared. Have a list of crisis resources on hand. Practice what you will say. Plan the conversation for a time when you won’t be in a hurry and can spend time with the person. 

“I’ve noticed that you’ve mentioned feeling hopeless a lot lately…” 

Mention the signs that prompted you to ask about suicide. This makes it clear that you are not asking “out of the blue,” and it makes it more difficult for the person to deny that something is bothering them.  

“Sometimes when people feel like that, they are thinking about suicide. Are you thinking about suicide?” 

Ask directly about suicide. Talking about suicide does NOT put the idea in someone’s head and usually they are relieved. Asking directly and using the word “suicide” establishes that you and the person at risk are talking about the same thing and lets the person know that you are willing to talk about suicide. 

“Are you thinking about ending your life?” 

You may phrase the question in a different way. If they answer “yes” to your direct question about suicide stay calm, and don’t leave the person alone until further help is obtained. Call 911, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255 or 988), or the Inland SoCal Crisis & Suicide Helpline (951-686-4357). 

2. Listen, Express Concern, Reassure 

Listen to the reasons the person has for both living and dying. Validate that they are considering both options and underscore that living is an option for them  

“I can imagine how tough this must be for you. I understand when you say that you aren't sure if you want to live or die. But have you always wanted to die? Well, maybe there's a chance you wont feel this way forever. I can help."  

Let the person know you care. Letting them know that you take their situation seriously, and you are genuinely concerned about them, will go a long way in your effort to support them. 

“I’m deeply concerned about you and I want you to know that help is available to get you through this.”  

 3. Create a Safety Plan 

Ask the person if they have access to any lethal means (weapons, medications, etc.) and help remove them from the vicinity (another friend, family member or law enforcement agent may be needed to assist with this). Do not put yourself in danger; if you are concerned about your own safety, call 911. 

“Do you have any weapons or prescription medications in the house?”  

Create a safety plan together. Ask the person what will help keep them safe until they meet with a professional.  

“Is there someone you can call if you think you may act on your thoughts of suicide?” 

Ask the person if they will refrain from using alcohol and other drugs or agree to have someone monitor their use. 

“Will you promise me that you will not drink or at least have someone monitor your drinking until we can get you help?” 

Get a verbal commitment that the person will not act upon thoughts of suicide until they have met with a professional. 

“Please promise me that you will not harm yourself or act on any thoughts of suicide until you meet with a professional.” 

4. Get Help 

Provide the person with the resources you have come prepared with. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255 or 988) or the local Riverside County Helpline (951-686-4357) anytime. If you feel the situation is critical, take the person to a nearby Emergency Room or walk-in psychiatric crisis clinic or call 911. 

“I understand if it feels awkward to go see a counselor. But there is a phone number we can call to talk to somebody. Maybe they can help?”   

5. What Not to Say 

Don’t ask in a way that indicates you want “No” for an answer. 

“You’re not thinking about suicide, are you?” OR, “You’re not thinking about doing something stupid, are you?” 

Don’t tell the person to do it. You may want to shout in frustration or anger, but this is the most dangerous thing you can say.  

“Fine! If you want to be selfish and kill yourself then go right ahead!  See if I care.” 

Don’t promise secrecy. The person may say that they don’t want you to tell anyone that they are suicidal. You may be concerned that they will be upset with you, but when someone’s life is at risk, it is more important to ensure their safety. 

Don’t say: “Don’t worry, I won’t tell anyone. Your secret is safe with me.” Say instead, “I care about you too much to keep a secret like this. You will need help and I am here to help you get it.” 

For more information on what to say and not to say please visit suicideispreventable.org 

I am worried about my child, what should I do? 

If you believe that your child is thinking about suicide, approach the situation by asking. Asking is the first step in saving a life and can let them know that you are here for them and will listen. 
 
If you need immediate help, call 911. For a psychiatric emergency, contact the Department of Mental Health 24-hours ACCESS Centers. 

If you or someone close to you is experiencing troubling thoughts, feelings, or behaviors, and you would like to speak with someone today, call or walk into one of Riverside Counties’ 24/7 Mental Health Urgent Care locations anytime. Someone who has been in your situation and knows how to help will be there to greet you. Whether you are in crisis or just need someone to talk to, all services are voluntary. 

Riverside County’s 24/7 Mental Health Urgent Care centers seek to serve all teens, adults, and families regardless of insurance type or ability to pay. Medi-cal is welcome. 

Individuals experiencing mental and/or behavioral health crises including: depression, anxiety, substance abuse and re-occurring troubling thoughts are assisted in a calm and supportive environment. 

Staff: 
Riverside County’s 24/7 Mental Health Urgent Care staff includes mental health providers, nurse practitioners, and other medical professionals, as well as peer staff with lived experiences. Individuals on staff are fluent in English and Spanish. Other languages can be made available as needed. 

Services Include: 
Crisis intervention, mental health counseling, medication evaluation, and linkage to community-based solutions. 

All locations are open 24/7.  Call or walk-in.  No appointments needed.  

Riverside (Adults ages 18 and over) 
9990 County Farm Rd. 
Bldg. 2 
Riverside, CA 92503 
(951) 509-2499 

Perris (Youth and Adults ages 13 and older) 
85 Ramona Expressway 
Suites 1-3 
Perris, CA 92571 
(951) 349-4195 

Palm Springs (Youth and Adults ages 13 and older) 
2500 N Palm Canyon Dr. 
Suite A1 – A4 
Palm Springs, CA 92262 
(442) 268-7000 
All are welcome regardless of insurance type or ability to pay.