Suicide crisis
A suicide crisis is an acute period of distress in which a person faces heightened risk of attempting suicide and may need immediate support.
Suicide warning signs: Observable changes or statements that may signal suicidal thoughts or increased risk of suicide. Sudden changes in behavior, hopelessness, or direct talk of suicide can signal urgent danger.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: A United States service providing free, confidential support by call, text, or chat for suicide and other emotional crises. It offers immediate connection to trained crisis counselors in the United States.
Suicidal ideation: Thoughts about killing oneself, ranging from a wish to be dead to consideration of a specific plan. Suicidal thoughts can be a central feature of a crisis, though their presence alone does not determine risk.
Postvention: Support and interventions provided after a suicide or suicide attempt to help affected people and reduce further harm. After an attempt, follow-up support can address trauma and ongoing risk.
Suicide risk assessment: A structured evaluation of suicidal thoughts, intent, plans, access to lethal means, and protective factors. Assessment helps determine the urgency and kind of support needed.
Crisis hotline: A telephone or messaging service that provides immediate support to people facing emotional distress or danger. Hotlines are a common route to timely support during a suicide crisis.
Suicide attempt: A nonfatal, self-directed act undertaken with at least some intent to die. An attempt marks an immediate medical emergency and a serious increase in concern.
Suicide bereavement: Grief experienced after the death of someone by suicide. A crisis can end in loss, leaving lasting effects on family and community.
Safety planning: A collaborative, written plan for coping with suicidal urges and seeking help during a crisis. A plan turns immediate warning signs into specific steps for staying safer.
Emergency department: A hospital department that evaluates and treats urgent medical and psychiatric problems. Emergency departments can assess immediate risk and arrange urgent care.