Q: What are signs that someone is thinking of suicide?
A: If you or someone you know is exhibiting any of these signs, seek help by calling 988
- Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves
- Looking for a way to kill themselves, like searching online or buying a gun
- Giving away important possessions
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
- Talking about feeling trapped or being in unbearable pain
- Talking about being a burden to others
- Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
- Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Withdrawing or isolating themselves
- Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
- Extreme mood swings
Q: I’ve never called before, how does this work?
A: Sometimes callers don’t know how to put into words what’s bothering them. Sometimes they need some help to get started. If so, we can ask some questions to get the conversation going. We’ll talk about what led up to you choosing to call and offer some suggestions on how those issues may be resolved. Sometimes you just need to be heard and aren’t looking for a solution just yet. That’s ok too, we’re expert listeners!
Q: Are you going to send the police to my house?
A: Our staff are trained to listen to your concerns, help you make a safety plan, and will make every effort to avoid involving emergency personnel. We won’t panic and overreact.
Q: Can I call just to talk?
A: We can always spend some time talking with you. However, we may have to limit the amount of time we spend with someone who is not in emotional distress or suicidal crisis. At the conclusion of our contact, if you still want or need to talk, we will provide you with some local warm line referrals. As a crisis hotline, we want to be able to help everyone who reaches out for help.
Q: Can I call as many times as I want?
A: We never block anyone from calling. At the same time, it is outside of our mission to function as a replacement for natural supports or mental health treatment. We will work with you to develop a plan to get those needs met.
Q: Can I call if I’m concerned for someone else? Even if it’s someone I’ve never met in person?
A: Absolutely! We will do our best to guide and assist you in developing a plan to keep that person safe. Most social media platforms have a way to report content about suicide or self-harm, we will walk you through the process. We can also help to determine if more information is needed to determine the level of risk and offer to help obtain it.
Q: Is there an age limit on who can call?
A: No. Anyone can call us for themselves or someone else. We welcome callers of any age. No one is too young or too old to reach out for help.
Q: What if I don’t live in New Jersey?
A: You can call the 988 Lifeline and be connected with a crisis counselor in your area.
Q: Can I make a donation?
Absolutely! We are an operating unit of University Behavioral Health Care, which is a division of Rutgers Biomedical Health Sciences. You can visit our donation page here:
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