If someone threatens suicide or manifests other self-destructive behaviors, a student, faculty or staff member's reaction and responsiveness could result in a positive crisis resolution. Successful intervention involves establishing a supportive relationship with the individual. A University employee is not liable for a breach of confidence when action is taken on behalf of a student whose behavior may be harmful to him/her or others. Counseling services are provided on-campus through the Counseling Center (909-748-8108) for students and through Human Resources (909-748-8040) for employees.
Warning Signs
Please note that many of these warning signs are signs of depression. Depression does not necessarily mean that a person is contemplating suicide, but depressed people often think of suicide. There are non-verbal and verbal warning signs that may suggest one is contemplating suicide.
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Giving away personal or prized possessions.
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Making a will or putting other affairs in order.
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Increased alcohol or drug use.
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Sleeping too much or too little.
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Change in eating pattern.
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Lack of interest in personal appearance.
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Lack of interest in friends; withdrawing from others.
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Lack of interest in social activities that were formerly of interest.
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Poor performance in school.
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Boredom, restlessness, and loss of concentration.
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Suddenly happier or calmer-person feels relief in knowing problems will soon be over.
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Preoccupation with death.
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Taking unnecessary risks.
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Visiting or calling people one cares about.
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Statements about hopelessness, helplessness, or worthlessness.
Verbal warning signs may include such statements as:
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"Instructors, classmates, family, and friends don't care."
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"Lately I've been driving my car like I really don't care what happens."
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"I've been saving up my pills in case things get really bad."
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"People are better off without me."
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"Everything seems to be going wrong."
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"I don't need this any more."
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"Life isn't worthwhile."
Ways to help a person who may be suicidal:
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Talk openly and freely and ask direct questions about the individual's intention.
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Listen to what is said and treat it seriously.
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Do not argue, debate, or lecture about whether or not suicide is right or wrong.
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Do not swear to secrecy.
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Do not offer platitudes or simple answers.
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Do not challenge the individual or use scare tactics.
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Do not leave the individual alone.
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Get help for the individual by contacting the following:
For students contact the Counseling Center (909-748-8108).
For employees contact Human Resources (909-748-8040).
After hours contact Public Safety (909-748-8888). -
Follow the instructions from counseling services or Public Safety and wait for a representative to arrive and/or accompany the individual to their location. Professional assistance will be determined by qualified professionals.
If someone threatens or attempts to commit suicide:
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If someone threatens to commit suicide notify Public Safety (909-748-8888). If someone has attempted suicide, immediately call 911.
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DO NOT LEAVE the person alone.
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Try to remove the individual calmly but firmly from immediate means of hurting him/herself.
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If the individual has a weapon, do not try to take it physically or through force. Alert emergency responders.
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Keep the area off limits and isolated until Public Safety, emergency medical personnel and/or police arrive.
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Render first aid, if necessary.
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Witnesses should be directed to stay in the area in case police or emergency services personnel need further information.