Algorithm for providing psychological assistance to a person
We remind you that 2 years ago, on 28 October, at the request of the social service of Igor Sikorsky KPI, Iryna Radelicka, a psychologist, crisis consultant, and Lifeline Ukraine trainer, conducted an event on the topic "Algorithm for providing psychological assistance to a person who expressed an intention to commit suicide".
About 50 people participated in the event, including psychologists, teachers, dormitory wardens, and students.
We discussed the types of suicidal behavior, the signs that may indicate a person is troubled by suicidal thoughts, what crisis counseling is, and the algorithm for conducting a counseling session. They also focused on developing a safety plan or so-called contract with the person intending to commit suicide. Participants were provided with specific methods and a plan for organizing assistance.
Suicide is the result of a person's conscious actions with the expectation of a fatal outcome. The vast majority of suicides are committed by mentally healthy individuals in a state of socio-psychological maladaptation of personality.
Suicide is one of the most common causes of death among people under the age of 50. Men die from suicide five times more often than women. Each case of suicide significantly affects at least 10 people (some data suggests more than 130).
It is important to be aware of several things:
Suicide can be prevented. Often it can be an impulsive act, and suicidal moods can pass in a very short time.
However, this does not mean that the desire cannot return soon;
When we talk about suicide, we do not increase the risk of it occurring;
Suicide threats should be taken seriously;
Crisis intervention, social support, and referral to a doctor help prevent suicide.
If you notice a change in the behavior of relatives or colleagues, you should observe the person more closely.
A few signs that may alert you:
- the person is in a state of depression,
- the person withdraws and isolates themselves from society,
- skips school or does not go to work,
- you see sharp mood swings,
at the same time, the person contemplates the meaning of life, utters phrases like: "everyone will be better off without me", "I want to fall asleep and not wake up", "I want peace", "what is the meaning of life?",
- increases alcohol or drug use,
- talks about death or seeks information about suicide.
What should I do in such cases? How to ask if a person has thoughts of suicide?
- Stay close, empathize.
- Always take statements about the intention to commit suicide seriously. Even when you think it's not true.
- Understand the suffering of the individual. Trust this person.
- Don't give me any advice! You have different experiences, education, and life situations.
- Do not judge or evaluate!
- Listen carefully! Everyone needs to be heard.
- Don't be afraid to speak and shout about your thoughts and plans to kill yourself. During a crisis, a person has Tunnel Vision and cannot think about anything else. This will help reduce emotional stress.
- Speak calmly, explain that you want to help because you care;
- Ask directly and openly about the intention and plan;
- Ensure your safety: remove dangerous objects;
- Help us find resources in the person's life. Listen to what the person is saying and pay attention to what is important to them, what their values are.
- Provide contacts for help - hotlines, hospitals, if necessary - call an ambulance and police.
- Motivate the person to seek help from professionals.
