If you are feeling suicidal you should call 911 immediately, or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or a mental health professional you can find through your tribal clinic, or school counselor.
You’re doing the right thing now by reaching out.
When someone tells me they are thinking about hurting themselves or are feeling suicidal, I take it seriously. Know that you are not alone and that there are steps you can take to help.
Here’s what you need to do:
1. Don’t keep it a secret! When someone has thoughts of hurting themselves, it is an emergency, and it’s a situation you are not prepared to handle alone. Reach out to someone you trust or who can help you, like a parent, relative, supportive adult, or a friend.
2. GET HELP! Talk with a trusted adult, or mental health professional – If you are thinking of hurting yourself, it is essential you get help. Talk to a trusted adult and schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional (like a counselor, psychologist, doctor, or nurse). You can check with your school, tribal clinic, or go to Mental Health America’s website to find a clinic closest to you.
Check out – the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline website.
•CALL: 1-800-273-8255, which is a 24-hour toll-free phone line to talk with a trained volunteer
•TEXT: “START” to 741741
•CHAT: They also have an online chat option available
You can also check out the Lived Experience video interviewing Native youth about how they deal with their thoughts of suicide, this may be helpful for you.
I’ll be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. You’ve done a smart thing by reaching out. Please take care.
Love,
Auntie Manda
