Suicide Protocol

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🧠 What is a Suicide Protocol?

A suicide protocol is a structured set of steps used by:

• Mental health professionals

• Schools / workplaces

• Crisis helplines

• Hospitals

to identify, assess, and respond to someone at risk of suicide.

🔍 1. Risk Identification

Recognizing warning signs such as:

• Talking about wanting to die or feeling hopeless

• Withdrawal from people or activities

• Sudden mood changes

• Giving away belongings

👉 Goal: Early detection

📊 2. Risk Assessment

Professionals assess:

• Severity (thoughts vs plans vs intent)

• Past attempts

• Mental health conditions (like Depression or Anxiety disorder)

• Support system availability

👉 Often done through structured interviews or validated questionnaires.

🚨 3. Immediate Safety Measures

If risk is high:

• Do not leave the person alone

• Remove access to harmful means

• Contact emergency services or crisis support

👉 Priority: Keep the person safe in the moment

🤝 4. Crisis Intervention

• Active listening (non-judgmental)

• Emotional support

• Grounding techniques

• Encouraging connection with trusted people

👉 Goal: Reduce distress and stabilize emotions

📞 5. Referral & Support

Connecting the person to:

• Therapists / psychiatrists

• Crisis helplines

• Support groups

👉 In India, examples include:

• AASRA: +91-22-27546669

• Kiran Mental Health Helpline: 1800-599-0019

🛠️ 6. Safety Planning

Creating a personalized plan:

• Warning signs to watch

• Coping strategies

• Emergency contacts

• Safe environments

👉 This is a collaborative plan, not imposed.

🔄 7. Follow-Up

• Regular check-ins

• Therapy sessions

• Monitoring recovery

👉 Goal: Long-term prevention

⚠️ Important Note

A suicide protocol is always about:

• Prevention

• Support

• Care

It should never include instructions for self-harm.