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How do I help?

We all play a vital role in ensuring the safety of our Converse community.

Please consider the following:

Show you care, connect on a feeling level, listen.

  • “I’m concerned about you and noticed you haven’t been sleeping, eating, going to class, etc.”
  • “How are you feeling?”
  • Reflect back their feelings and paraphrase: “What I hear you say is that you are in a great deal of pain and feel hopeless.”
  • “I’m glad you called.”
  • Listen with respect. Individuals in distress want understanding and care.

Ask about suicide directly.

  • “Sometimes when people feel sad, they have thoughts of killing themselves. Have you had such thoughts?”
  • “Are you thinking of killing yourself?”
  • “Have you considered suicide?” “How would you go about it?” “When would you do that?”
  • Remember, asking about suicide does NOT put the idea in people’s minds.

Get help. Explore options. Offer resources.

  • “What would help now?” “Who can help?” “Who usually helps?” “How can I help?”
  • Get assistance. Avoid trying to be the only lifeline for this person. Seek out resources even if it means breaking a confidence.
  • “How would you feel about going to the Wellness Center? Let’s call right now. I’ll walk over with you to see a counselor.”
  • Wellness Center, 864-596-9258, Monday through Thursday 8:30 – 5:00, Friday, 8:30 – 2:00.
  • After hours, contact Campus Safety or RD on call.
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK
  • Call 911 if this is an acute crisis.

What Not To Do

  • Do not promise to keep the person’s thoughts of suicide a secret.
  • Do not leave the person alone.
  • Do not offer simple solutions.
  • Do not suggest drugs or alcohol as a solution.

The Behavioral Intervention Team strongly encourages you to utilize its referral services. Please know the success of this process hinges on community commitment to reporting concerns.