MessagesHelp.org
Ongoing Support (Follow-up)
Suicide ideas do not disappear quickly
After the crisis improves, keep an eye out until life is back to normal
Suicidal thoughts take time to settle
- Suicidal thoughts usually take time to develop and also take time to settle down.
- One phone call or one day of messages rarely eliminates completely the thoughts of suicide.
- Brief contact can buy time, but only for a limited period.
Ongoing connection provides belonging
- Consistent, ongoing support helps the person at risk feel that they belong to a group.
- Ongoing support shows they are valued and that people care about them beyond a short crisis.
When to involve professionals
- If risk continues for more than a few days, a professional assessment is increasingly likely to be needed.
- You cannot be a long-term therapist.
- You can continue to offer support, which usually assists professional care.
Key Message
Your ongoing messages complement professional help and provide crucial emotional support during recovery.