This is your green light to help someone in crisis

When someone you care about is seriously hurting, it can be hard to know what to do.

You might worry about saying the wrong thing.
You might wonder if you'll make it worse.
You might not be sure if they even want your help.

Staying silent is not the answer.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a reminder that support from friends, family and community matters.

Most people who attempt or complete suicide make their intentions known ahead of time - through what they say, how they act, or changes in their mood. Recognizing those signs and taking them seriously can make a meaningful difference.

This is your green light to check on a friend or loved one in crisis.

"When in doubt about a loved one's safety, say something. Tell anyone that you can trust. We at Endeavor Health are ready and waiting to support you. Providing support doesn't have to feel lonely - we're here to help," said Bradley Cutler, MD, a psychiatrist at Endeavor Health.

5 ways to help someone in crisis

Dr. Cutler offers guidelines to help someone in crisis:

1. Ask directly. It's okay to ask if they are thinking about suicide. Asking doesn't put the idea in their head - it opens the door for an honest conversation and shows you care.
2. Be there. You don't need to have the perfect words. Simply being present, listening without judgment and taking their feelings seriously can help them feel less alone.
3. Help keep them safe. If you're concerned about immediate risk, try to reduce their access to potentially harmful items like drugs/medications, sharp objects or firearms.
4. Help them connect to support. Encourage them to reach out to someone trained to help - such as a mental health professional, support group, trusted adult, teacher or spiritual advisor. You may also suggest saving the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in their phone so it's easy to access if needed.
5. Follow up. Support doesn't end after one conversation. Check in again. A simple message or call can remind them they're not alone.

"What matters most is being there. Someone knowing that they are cared about - and are seen - matters so much more than we might imagine," said Dr. Cutler.

Suicidal thoughts can be linked to many different factors, including mental health conditions, life stressors and major changes. Support, connection and professional care can all play an important role in recovery.

If you or someone you know needs help now

You are not alone. Help is available 24/7:

• Call 911 if there is immediate danger
• Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
• Call (847) HEALING (Linden Oaks 24/7 Help Line)
• Call (800) 273-TALK (8255) (National Suicide Prevention Lifeline)
• Text TALK to 741741 (Crisis Text Line)

Want to make a difference in your community?

If you'd like to be better prepared to support someone in need, consider attending this upcoming training:

Adult Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training course

Join us on Friday, May 29, from 9 am-3:30 pm at Endeavor Health Corporate Center (4201 E Winfield Rd, 5th Floor in Warrenville) and learn how to recognize the signs and respond to mental health and substance use challenges. Register now