Empathetic listening key to meeting needs.

Individuals affected by mental health crises often need the support of those around them to help them get back on track.  If you encounter a friend, relative, acquaintance, or other person who displays the warning signs of suicide (e.g., discussing taking his/her life, obtaining the means to carry out a suicide plan, or engaging in uncharacteristic behaviors, among other acts), mental health experts recommend following the ALGEE approach, which stands for:

• Assess for risk of suicide or bodily harm

• Listen in a nonjudgmental way

• Give reassurance and information

• Encourage appropriate professional help

• Encourage self-help and other support strategies

The Recovery Village, based in Umatilla, Florida, recommends that concerned individuals express empathy and avoid criticizing the person experiencing the mental health crisis.  Instead, listeners should be supportive, patient, and kind to those who are experiencing thoughts of suicide.  The rehab center includes other resources, including the organizations (featuring phone numbers) shown below:

• National Suicide Helpline: 1-800-273-8255

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357

• American Psychiatric Association Answer Center: 1-888-357-7924

• American Psychological Association Public Education Line: 1-800-964-2000

• The National Mental Health Association: 800-969-6642

• The National Poison Control Center: 800-222-1222

• Alcohol and Drug Abuse Helpline: 1-800-821-4357

• National Institute on Drug Abuse Hotline: 1-800-729-6686

Additional advice for meeting the needs of those contemplating suicide is available online at https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/first-aid/suicidal-thoughts/