Support for the Individual After an Attempt


Navigating Life After an Attempt

Before you read anything else, we want you to know that your life matters and we are glad you are here.  It's okay if you're unsure of how to figure out next steps in your suicide attempt recovery - you don't have to face it alone.  You've just gone through something really big and just like you would while recovering from any other health concern, it can be helpful to let others support and care for you.

Interacting with Family and Friends

Sometimes people simply just don’t know what to say after a suicide attempt. They might feel scared or confused and say things that aren’t helpful to your recovery. They might also avoid talking about it altogether. It’s important to remember that they may need time to process what has happened — but their journey is not your journey. You are not responsible for how they choose to work through their feelings.

If someone asks about your attempt, share only what you’re comfortable sharing. Or, you can simply say that you need time to talk about it. It’s your story to tell, in your own way and on your own timeline.

Things You Can Do to Support Your Recovery

What you have just gone through is really big. As you navigate your healing, here are some tips and things to keep in mind from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: 

  • Be kind to yourself. You have just survived something significant and you deserve to take the time you need. 
  • Take care of your health. Exercising, eating right, getting enough sleep, and spending time with your friends and loved ones can have a big impact on your health and mood. 
  • Find a mental health professional. A good therapist or doctor can be a useful person to have as part of your recovery plan. They can also help you develop a safety plan and find ways to address stressors. 
  • Try a support group. There are lots of different kinds of support groups, including those for depression, other mental health conditions and for those who have survived a suicide attempt. A group can help you know you are not alone. 
  • Talk to those you trust.  When you're ready, choose people who you want to share information with, let them know what happened and that you'd really like their support. Remember it is your story to tell in your own way and on your own timeline. 

 


Create a Safety Plan

Having a safety plan can be a really helpful tool in your recovery. The idea behind a safety plan is to create something that works for you. Here are some things to consider putting in your plan:

  1. Recognize what puts you at risk. This is different for everyone. 
  2. List coping strategies that do not rely on being in the presence of your friends, family or others. 
  3. Identify the people and places that help take your mind off your problems. 
  4. Know who the people are that you can reach out to in a crisis and what their numbers are. 
  5. List the Clackamas County Crisis and Support line at 503-655-8585 and YouthLine's information. Take it one step further and put these numbers in your cell phone! You never know when you or someone you care about might need these numbers. 
  6. Keep your environment safe. Learn more about free resources to create a safer home here. 

A safety plan guide and template can be found here.