State of Mind
Someone feels nervous, restless, and has racing thoughts before social interactions.
Anxiety
True or False: Asking about suicide puts the idea in someone’s head.
False
Lowering your voice can help reduce what?
Escalation / Tension
A raised voice is an example of what type of warning sign?
Verbal Cue
“Calm down.”
"Let’s slow this down together" or "Let's take a deep breath together."
A person feels hopeless, tired all the time, and has lost interest in things they used to enjoy.
Depression
Name one warning sign of suicide risk.
Talking about hopelessness, giving away belongings, isolation, drastic mood change.
What skill involves acknowledging emotions without agreeing with behavior?
Validation
Clenched fists and pacing are examples of what?
Behavioral Cue
“You’re overreacting.”
“This seems really overwhelming.”
Someone believes others are out to harm them despite no clear evidence.
If someone says “I don’t want to be here anymore,” what should you do first?
Take it seriously and ask directly about their safety
Giving someone more physical space helps reduce what?
Perceived Threat
A crowded, noisy environment increases what?
Stress and escalation risk
“That’s not a big deal.”
“I can see why that feels important to you.”
A person experiences extreme mood swings between high energy and deep sadness.
Bipolar
What is one protective factor that lowers suicide risk?
Strong support system, access to care, feeling connected, purpose
What technique involves slowing your speech to match a calmer pace?
Pacing/Mirroring
Repeating the same complaint over and over may indicate what?
Rising emotional intensity
“You need to stop.”
“Let’s pause for a moment.”
Someone hears or sees things others do not and feels disconnected from reality.
Psychosis/Schizophrenia
What is the best thing you can do when someone says they want to die?
Listen, validate, stay with them, and connect them to help
When de-escalation isn’t working, what’s the safest next step?
Pause, disengage, increase support, or get help
Why is early intervention important?
It prevents bigger safety issues later
“That’s not my problem.”
“Let’s figure out what support you need.”