Suicide prevention

Everyone responds to traumatic events in different ways. But it's common to have some type of reaction. You may react right away or days, weeks, or months later.

After a traumatic event you may:

• Have changes in your emotions, such as:
  • Feeling hopeless or that the world and other people aren't safe.
  • Being overwhelmed by certain emotions, such as anxiety, anger, shame, or guilt.
  • Feeling too little emotion, or numb.
• Have changes in your behaviors, such as:
  • Avoiding people or places that remind you of the event.
  • Withdrawing from friends, family, and activities.
  • Having disturbing memories or dreams about the event. Certain smells, noises, or other reminders of the event may cause them.
  • Having trouble with sexual relationships.
• Have physical changes, such as:
  • Having headaches, dizziness, or tiredness that you can't explain.
  • Startling easily or feeling like you can't relax.
  • Having trouble sleeping.
  • Having memory loss or trouble concentrating.

It can take months or years to heal from a traumatic event. But most people get better with time. If you need help to get better, contact your doctor or counselor.

If you are feeling hopeless or like you might harm yourself, get help right away.

Where to get help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

If you or someone you know talks about suicide, self-harm, a mental health crisis, a substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress, get help right away. You can:

• Call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
• Call 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).
• Text HOME to 741741 to access the Crisis Text Line.

Consider saving these numbers in your phone.

Go to 988lifeline.org for more information or to chat online.