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When a loved one faces a crisis or talks of suicide, help often seems far away.
You have many questions:
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How do I get help for my loved one?
There are many avenues for getting help. Counselors and
therapists offer “talk therapy” to help individuals resolve difficult
life situations. Psychiatrists are medical doctors that most often focus
on medications to alleviate symptoms of depression or anxiety. Keep in
mind that these options for outpatient treatment may not be immediately
available in your area, and that, once in process, it may take weeks
before improvement is seen.
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Do I need to seek emergency assistance or call local authorities?
If your loved one has made a direct suicide threat, the answer is
“yes.” Call 911 immediately. However, when someone talks of passive
suicidal thoughts, such as wishing to not wake up in the morning, the
answers are less clear. Sometimes the matter can be handled on an
outpatient basis, but it is always a good idea to seek the help of a
trained professional.
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What is my role in the process—how can I assist?
That is a critical question. The answer depends on the
particulars of your situation. We are here to understand the nature of
the crisis and to help you formulate the correct response.
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How much does a visit to the Emergency Room cost?
According to a study by Blue Cross/Blue Shield, the average cost
of an Emergency Room visit in 2008 was $1,049. Your costs may be higher
or lower, depending on the specific care your loved one requires.
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When someone talks of suicide, how do I know if they're serious?
Talk of suicide should always be taken seriously. Often the
individual is making a “cry for help.” Symptoms of depression or anxiety
can lead to suicidal thoughts, as can recent changes in medication.
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How is your service different from a suicide or crisis line?
Suicide hotlines are usually staffed by volunteers who are
trained to seek identifying information from the caller so they can
notify local authorities (the police) about his or her location.
Depending on the state in which you live, law enforcement may intervene
and escort your loved one—willing or not—to the nearest hospital for a
psychiatric evaluation and possible hospital admission. If you know that
needs to happen, don’t delay!
If not, and you would like to speak with a seasoned professional,
help is moments away. For a fraction of the cost of an Emergency Room
visit, a private and confidential telephone consultation is available.
The life of your loved one is worth it!
To begin your consultation, click here.
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