Suicide Threats - Psychological Emergencies
A person suffering a psychological crisis may display pre-violent behavior before acting out. These behaviors can vary greatly depending on an individual’s personality, resolve for destruction or even their level of intoxication thus making it difficult to describe. Whether the signs are obvious to a stranger or only detectable because of a level of intimacy shared with a person in crisis; anytime you encounter behavior that you believe will imminently lead to violence toward oneself or others call 911 immediately.
If you are with a person who appears solely intent on self-destruction, remain with him or her only if you believe it is safe to do so. While keeping an eye on him or her, call 911 and describe for the operator their behavior. If at any time you feel threatened you should leave the person alone and go to a place where you can safely call 911.
Stay on the phone with the 911 operator until the operator ends the call.
