But what can I do?

September 5 - 11 is National Suicide Prevention Week

Suicide is something that has personally affected my family.
Two years ago my dad committed suicide.

{You can read more about our story here, here, here, here, here and here.}

It is my sincere desire that no one would ever feel the way he felt.
And that no family would have to endure the horrible ache of
losing someone to suicide.

That's a nice sentiment but it isn't going to happen just by wishing.
So what can I do?
What can you do?
To think that I, or any one person, could resolve the suicide epidemic -
and it is an epidemic-
is a little audacious
but we can do something.

The Effort, a Sacramento-based nonprofit that strives to "transform and improve lives" gives the following advice on how you can help:

• LISTEN to them and take them seriously. Help them feel understood.
• TALK to them directly and openly about suicide without judging. Ask if they have a plan for suicide and what that plan includes. Don’t promise to keep suicide a secret.
• EXPLORE feelings and what seems so painful for them. It is important for a person at risk to feel understood.
• DON’T JUDGE or CRITICIZE Accept their feelings and thoughts as they are. Don’t offer false hope. Don’t try to cheer them up superficially. Don’t dare them to do it.
• OFFER HONEST HOPE that there are alternatives, that you care, and that it’s possible to begin to feel better with support. Avoid giving advice or simplistic solutions.
• PLAN for safety with them- get involved. Be available and responsive.
• SEEK SUPPORT alternatives for the person at risk, as well as yourself. Help the person at risk connect with that support, if possible. Consider the Suicide Prevention Crisis Line as a source of 24hr support.
• SAFETY If suicide is imminent, seek outside emergency intervention from sources who specialize in suicide prevention and crisis intervention. This might include a psychiatric hospital, emergency room, 911, or Suicide Prevention; Crisis Services at 1-800-273-8255. Do not leave them alone. Remove lethal means, if possible, without putting yourself in danger.

To Write Love on Her Arms is a great organization that offers referrals to some great resources.

Don't ever think that you have nothing to offer someone in need.
There is power in love.
People want to feel wanted, needed, loved, validated.
Listen.
Offer to help him or her find help.
Let that person know that they are not alone.
Love.
There is always hope.
People just need to be reminded of that sometimes.