Helping

If you feel your student is suicidal it is important that you watch for warning signs and address the concern immediately. Ensuring that you communicate with your student about your presence in their life and your want to help them is incredibly important. If you need guidance, Northern Illinois University Counseling and Consultation Services, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, and the Hope Line, along with emergency services are at your disposal to aid you in helping your student.

• Depression looks differently on each person but if you suspect depression there must be some signs that are present which cause you to do so. If there are changes in demeanor, attitude, outlook on life, or continuous mood; it is important that you address the behavior.
• If you feel like your student is depressed it is pertinent that you guide them towards resources that can help with their depression. If suspecting that your student is depressed it is important that you watch for warning signs that could illustrate suicidal behavior.

If your student has lost someone to suicide they may be facing a range of emotions and feelings that can affecting their day to day behavior. Losing someone to suicide may force a person to question why and push them to feel confused, depressed, responsible, or abandoned. Ensuring that your student knows you are there to aid them through the struggle that is losing someone to suicide will help them in coming to terms with the tragedy. If you feel your student needs outside resources, please visit the get help now page and help them find the resources they need.

• There are many reasons why your student may be distant which include but are not limited to;
  • Being away from home
  • Getting used to new surroundings
  • Adjusting to college
  • Feeling depressed
  • Feeling overwhelmed
• If you suspect your student is distant because they are depressed or considering suicide it is important that you intervene to get them the help they need.

If you suspect your friend may be suicidal it is important that you look for warning signs and intervene if need be. You should look for warning signs and ensure you are a support system for your friend; letting them know you are there for them. There are many resources available including but not limited to the Northern Illinois University Counseling and Consultation Services, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, the hope line, and emergency services to help your friend through times of crisis.

• If you are concerned about a friend after they post alarming things online it is important that you reach out to them. Alarming posts include but are not limited to statements which resemble;
  • Things won’t get better
  • Nobody cares about what happens to me
  • Life is not worth it
  • Everything is wrong
• Remind your friend that you are there to help them and remember the resources available to aid them in overcoming crisis.