Self-Harm and Suicidal Ideation Response Tips
Both suicidal and self-harm incidents are mandated reporting in most states so please consult your local and state requirements on such and follow the directives detailed there. In addition, consider your policy and ideologies. The key factor—although not the only factor—in considering the action(s) to take is a judgment about the seriousness of risk. Seriousness is defined as the likelihood that a suicide attempt will occur and the potential consequences of an attempt. Judgments about the degree of seriousness of risk should be made in consultation with a supervisor and/or a treatment team, not by a counselor acting alone. Remember to be patient, understanding and provide a sense of hope.
Discovery and Identification
An anonymous reporter may not self-identify as contemplating suicide immediately. Things to look out for that indicates this is related to suicidal thoughts include:
Having very specific details of the so-called “plan”
Speaking in hypotheticals, and past presence connotation
Talking about giving very important items away
General Guidance
Respond in a timely manner: With self-harm and suicide ideation, time is of the essence so don’t delay in responding to the report.
Take the report seriously: Some people feel that kids who say they are going to hurt or kill themselves are “just doing it for attention,” But if a report comes in indicating thoughts of suicide, believe them and get help.
Reporter (3rd party, Victim, Aggressor): Determine is this is a self or 3rd party report. This would change the importance of the timing and escalate the need to gather further information
If it’s a third-party report, ask for a name. Let them know that you want to help this person and need to reach out to them to support them further.
Examples to the Victim:
“I am here to help you."
“What can I do to help you?”
”Can we meet face to face?”
Examples to the Aggressor:
“Can you tell me who this person is so that I can reach out to them directly?”
Tips for Interaction
Self Harm and Suicidal reports are sensitive and the details you need may be revealed through an evolving conversation. Be patient but persistent. Some tips that may help:
If the reporter is hesitant and a 3rd party, let them know what a great friend they will be in getting this person help.
“Do you know if the person has a plan?”
Are there any physical signs that this person has self-harmed in anyway? If so where?”
“Do they have access to a weapon at home? Or somewhere else?”
“Is this the first time you have heard of this?”
Consider requesting additional responses that includes a picture or video
Coaching
Listen with empathy and provide support
A recent event may be involved: For example, a fight or breakup might not seem like a big deal but for a young person it can feel immense. Sympathize and listen. Minimizing what the reporter is going through can increase his or her sense of hopelessness.
Express acceptance and concern. Avoid sermonizing, arguing, problem-solving, or giving advice.
It is important to convey an attitude of concern and understanding.
Praise the person for coming forward to report this serious matter and that you are dedicated to getting whomever the help they need.
Ask open-ended questions to gather information. Examples: o “What a good friend you are to come forward.”
“What else can you tell me?”
“Can you tell me anything else that may help me to help them?”
“I really want to help you right now.”
“What can I do to help you right now?”
Resources
Always provide a list of resources to the reporter
School Staff Resources:
The American School Counselor Association specifically speaks to suicide prevention in the “Serious or Foreseeable Harm to Self or Others” section of the 2016 ASCA Ethical Standards for School Counselors. These standards can be used as an advocacy tool for your role in suicide prevention and as a reference when you have a question about best practice.
The SOS (Signs of Suicide) Program through Screening for Mental Health offers a FREE online gatekeeper training for middle school and high school staff. This 90-minute training provides information about mental illness, risk, and protective factors for suicide including ways to recognize and respond to warning signs of suicide and self-injury.
Resources for Students:
Information Line: 1-800-DONT-CUT or 1-800-366-8288
Email: [email protected]
Resources for Parents:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: We can all help prevent suicide. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) can also connect parents with support groups in their area. For parents who don’t live near in-person support groups or don’t feel comfortable going to them, DBSA’s Balanced Mind Parents Network, an online community, comes highly recommended by parents of suicidal teens.
Legal Disclaimer
This material is made available for education purposes only as well as to give general information and general understanding of current issues, and not to provide specific legal or process advice. This material should not be used as a substitute for your specific safety or legal advice from a licensed professional safety officer or attorney in your state.
This is not meant to be used, nor should it be used, as your safety procedure. For documentation of your safety procedure consult your safety resources at state, district, or school level as appropriate. STOPit is not responsible for any safety issue reported.