Question
My Role as a Helper In general, I hope to be able to help a person with suicide thoughts by: __ connecting them with someone who can help them. __ helping them keep safe -for-now, then letting others take over. __ helping with safety now and then offering to support the main caregiver. __ helping with safety now and continuing to help as the main caregiver. My role might change depending on the needs of the person with suicide thoughts and my own needs. __ yes __ no __ not sure I know my role might change if the person with suicide thoughts is someone I know personally. __ yes __ no __ not sure ing of Day 1
Solution
4
(150 Votes)
Kassandra
Elite ยท Tutor for 8 years
Answer
It's excellent that you're thinking about how to help someone with suicidal thoughts. Your outlined roles are all valuable and demonstrate a compassionate approach. Connecting someone to professional help is crucial, and your focus on safety is paramount. Let's clarify the roles and add some important considerations:* **Connecting them with someone who can help them:** This is the most important role. You are a bridge to professional support. Think of resources like the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, crisis text lines, mental health professionals, and emergency services. Your role here is to facilitate that connection, not to provide therapy yourself.* **Helping them keep safe -for-now, then letting others take over:** This is appropriate in a crisis situation. Your immediate priority is to ensure their safety until professional help arrives. Once professionals are involved, you can step back, knowing they are in capable hands.* **Helping with safety now and then offering to support the main caregiver:** This is a supportive role. After the immediate crisis, you can offer practical and emotional support to the person's primary caregiver (family member, friend, etc.). This could involve helping with errands, providing a listening ear, or simply being present.* **Helping with safety now and continuing to help as the main caregiver:** This requires careful consideration. Being a primary caregiver for someone struggling with suicidal thoughts is a significant responsibility and can be emotionally taxing. It's essential to assess your own capacity and resources before taking on this role. Ensure you have support for yourself and clear boundaries.**Regarding the "yes/no/not sure" questions:*** **"My role might change depending on the needs of the person with suicide thoughts and my own needs." - YES** Absolutely. The situation is dynamic, and your role should adapt accordingly. Your own well-being is crucial; you can't pour from an empty cup.* **"I know my role might change if the person with suicide thoughts is someone I know personally." - YES** This is especially true. Your personal relationship adds another layer of complexity. It's even more important to prioritize professional help and establish healthy boundaries to protect both yourself and the person you care about.**Key takeaway:** Your focus on safety and connecting the person to professional help is vital. Remember, you are not a therapist. Your role is to be a supportive presence and facilitate access to qualified help. Take care of yourself throughout the process.