Summary
Summary and Key Points
Key points
- When you recognize suicide warning signs, it is important to ask the person if they are considering suicide.
- Asking about suicidal thoughts or feelings won’t push someone into harming themselves.
- Validate the person’s feelings. Listen and allow the person to talk without judging them. Reassure the person that help is available, and you will help them find it.
- If a person exhibits warning signs: do not leave them alone, connect them to the Crisis Line, and offer local resources/referrals.
Summary
- Remember S.A.V.E.S.13
- Signs: look for the warning signs of suicide
- Ask the question
- Validate the person’s experiences and feelings
- Expedite referral
- Set a reminder to follow up with the patient
- Pharmacy staff can engage in suicide prevention to help save lives.
“I interact with people often who feel comfortable telling me about major life events. I listen and am empathetic and stop what I’m doing to listen. I may not have time, but I make time. I strive for them to feel better when walking away from my counter. One little interaction can make a difference.”
-Community Pharmacist