Be A Lifeline

Know The Signs is a California statewide suicide prevention social marketing campaign built on three key messages: Know the Signs. Find the Words. Reach Out. This campaign is intended to educate Californians how to recognize the warning signs of suicide, how to find the words to have a direct conversation with someone in crisis and where to find professional help and resources. 

#1: Know The Signs 

Signs that someone may be considering suicide: 
  • Loss of interest in hobbies or activities 
  • Withdrawing from social life 
  • Neglecting personal hygiene 
  • Changes in sleep 
  • Changes in personality 
  • Reckless behavior 
  • Physical pain 
  • Substance abuse 
  • Giving away personal belongings 
  • Goodbyes to loved ones/friends 
CRITICAL SIGNS: If someone displays any of these signs, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-5255) or seek emergency help:
  • Talking about death or suicide 
  • Seeking methods for self harm, such as searching online or obtaining a gun 
  • Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
#2: Find The Words 
   Before the conversation:
  • Practice what you will say 
  • Have a list of resources ready 
  • Plan the conversation for a time that neither you or the person will be rushed or distracted 
​Listen, express concern, reassure:
  • Express the concerns you have that led you to having this discussion with them
  • Ask the question directly - "Are you thinking about suicide" OR "Are you thinking about ending your life?"
  • Listen to the reasons they have for both living and dying 
  • Validate that they are considering both options - underscore that living is an option for them.
​Create a safety plan:
  • Ask the personal if they have any access to lethal means 
  • If there is access - help the person with removing them from the vicinity (please remember, your safety is a top priority - if you do not feel safe doing this, contact a friend/family member or law enforcement that can help with this step)
  • Ask the person what will help them stay safe until they can seek help from a professional 
  • Ask the person to promise not to harm themselves or act on thoughts of suicide until they can seek help from a professional 
#3: Reach Out 
  • Ask the person if they will seek help from a professional source as soon as possible - offer them the list of resources you came prepared with 
  • Offer to assist the person in seeking help - "Why don't we call the National Lifeline together and I can help tell them what's going on" OR "It sounds like you would like to go to the emergency room, I'll take you there and wait with you"
  • For a list of national and Truckee Tahoe based resources, click here.
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