Dear Auntie, I’ve noticed my friend has been posting a lot about how he doesn’t belong, and saying things like FML, nobody cares with an alone emoticon. What should I do?
You’re right for writing in and good on you for following your gut. It’s nothing to take lightly, especially if your instincts are telling you to get help.
Your friend might be at Immediate Risk for suicide if he’s…
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
- Talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself
- Looking for a way to kill oneself, such as searching online or obtaining a gun
…you should immediately call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or a mental health professional that can find through your tribal clinic, or school counselor.
Serious Risk
Other behaviors may also indicate a serious risk—especially if the behavior is new; has increased; and/or seems related to a painful event, loss,or change.
- Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
- Talking about being a burden to others
- Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
- Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Withdrawing or feeling isolated
- Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
GET HELP!
Talk to a trusted adult, or mental health professional.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
- CALL: 1-800-273-8255, which is a 24-hour toll-free phone line to talk with a trained volunteer about how to talk about suicide with your friend or how to help them get connected with a trusted adult or health professional
- TEXT: “START” to 741741
- CHAT: They also have an online chat option available for you and your friend
You can also check out the Lived Experience video interviewing Native youth about how they deal with their thoughts of suicide at times, maybe it will help you with your friend.
I’ll be keeping you and your friend in my thoughts and prayers. Good luck.
Love,
Auntie Manda
