When to Seek Professional Help Immediately. Some behaviors may indicate an emergency is happening or that a person is in crisis. If you observe the following behaviors, you should immediately connect the person with professional help, such as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, emergency medical services, or a mental health professional.

• Talking about immediate harm to oneself or others
• Planning to attempt suicide (for example, searching online for information about how to attempt suicide)
• Acting in such an erratic manner that you are concerned about their safety

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Call or text 988 or visit https://988lifeline.org/The Lifeline is a 24-hour toll-free phone line for people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. An online chat option is also available. 

What leads to suicide?

There’s no single cause for suicide. Suicide most often occurs when stressors and health issues converge to create an experience of hopelessness and despair. Depression is the most common condition associated with suicide, and it is often undiagnosed or untreated. 

Conditions like depression, anxiety, and substance problems, especially when unaddressed, increase risk for suicide. Yet it’s important to note that most people who actively manage their mental health conditions go on to engage in life.