Resources
Know the warning signs for suicidal behavior & how to get help
Getting Help
For information about other services in the community,
give 988 a call — we are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
You don’t need to be suicidal to call.
Below are several local, nationwide, and online resources you can access to learn more about suicide, and support those in your life who are experiencing suicidal ideation.
Warning Signs
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of the signs listed below, please call or text 988 immediately – even if you’re not sure.
While some suicides occur without warning, most people who die of suicide show two or more of the following warning signs within two months of their death.
For more information on warning signs, visit suicideispreventable.org
Statements or threats of suicide (direct or hinting)
This may seem obvious, but these comments are oftentimes ignored. People may think threats of suicide are bids for attention. It is important to take these statements seriously, because people who talk about suicide are often asking for someone to listen and help.
Preoccupation with death and/or hopelessness
Suicidal people may talk about death more than usual, and they may make statements like “I wish I were dead” or “this would be so much easier if I was gone.” These thought patterns may also show in their art or journaling.
Drug and alcohol use
One half of people who die by suicide are intoxicated at the time of their death. This risk increases to 80% among teens and young adults under age 25.
Giving away prized possessions
In preparation for their death, some people give away pets, family heirlooms, and other important possessions to family and friends.
Saying goodbye
Many people make amends and say their goodbyes to family, friends, and loved ones.
Increased isolation
When people feel suicidal, they often isolate themselves. They may stop returning phone calls and messages, going out, being social, or participating in activities they used to enjoy.
Extreme changes in mood, personality, or activities
Mood—increased hopelessness, anxiety, anger, or overwhelm
Personality—the person seems different or withdrawn
Activity level—obvious decrease or increase in activity
Appetite—eating too much or too little
Sleep patterns—sleeping too much or too little.
Physical health complaints
Emotional distress can show up in bodily complaints. People who are very stressed or suicidal may experience headaches, lack of sleep or appetite, muscle aches, joint issues, back pain, stomach problems, and other physical conditions.
Self injury (unexplained cuts/burns, frequent "accidents", etc.)
Self-injury by itself is usually not a suicide attempt. It is, however, a sign that someone is going through a lot of emotional pain and needs some help and support. Suicidal thoughts may or may not be present. As with suicide, there is a lot of shame and fear of being rejected or thought “crazy” around self-harm. It is very important to be open, supportive, and willing to ask and talk about self-harm with the person in a nonjudgmental way.
Sudden mood elevation
Sometimes, individuals who have decided to go through with a suicide attempt will feel alleviated of stress. This may manifest in a sudden, unexplained, or extreme shift from depression to being unusually happy or content.
24/7/365 Support
Santa Cruz County
Monterey, Santa Cruz, & San Benito Suicide Crisis Line
1-877-ONE-LIFE or 1-877-663-5433
Santa Cruz County Behavioral Health
831-454-4170
Monterey County
Monterey, Santa Cruz, & San Benito Suicide Crisis Line
1-877-ONE-LIFE or 1-877-663-5433
Monterey County Behavioral Health
1-866-615-1060
San Benito County
Monterey, Santa Cruz, & San Benito Suicide Crisis Line
1-877-ONE-LIFE or 1-877-663-5433
San Benito County Behavioral Health
831-902-2911
National Resources
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Call, text, or chat 988
LGBTQIA+ Resources
The Trevor Project: Dedicated to preventing suicide among LGBTQIA+ youth. Call 1 (866) 488-7386
Trans Lifeline: A suicide crisis line for transgender people staffed by transgender people. CAN (877) 330-6366
Printable Resources
Download and print our free resources below.
We will also mail you printed copies of these brochures and our English/Spanish STOP Suicide cards. To request your copies, call 831-459-9373 or email sps@fsa-cc.org. Be sure to include your mailing address and the number of copies you require.
"Understanding You"
Explore our interactive guide designed to help you navigate personal challenges and mental health with compassion and understanding. Perfect for anyone seeking guidance and support.
Calls to the Suicide Crisis Line are confidential, but we are required to report to outside agencies and/or get additional help in certain situations, including immediate risk of suicide or homicide and minor, elder, or dependent adult abuse or neglect.