University Counseling Services

Suicide Intervention for Students
University Counseling Services (UCS)
780-4050

Warning Signs:
Eating and sleeping disturbances
Pessimism
Extreme moodiness
Excessive self criticism
Difficulty concentrating
Preoccupation with death (often through music,
poetry, journal writing)
Talk of suicide, death
Neglects appearance
Increased hopelessness
Isolates from friends and family
Feels life is meaningless
Gives away possessions
Puts life in order-makes a will
Displays sudden improvement after a period
of sadness and withdrawal

What to do:
Show you care, listen, offer hope
Take the person seriously
Ask: “Are you thinking of suicide?”
Don’t get over-involved

Provide resources:
“UCS is available to speak with
you and I can walk you there” “Other people sometimes feel
this way and UCS has helped”
“You can call UCS from my
office”

If the student refuses help:
Call UCS to consult
Remember, you may have planted
the first seed that there is help available

Suicide is the second leading cause of death for 15-24 year olds in our state. Once every other week in Maine someone in this age range commits suicide. It is crucial that warning signs are taken seriously and individuals are assisted in getting the help they need. Faculty and staff may be the first people to notice that a student is distressed, and your intervention may save a life. If there is immediate threat of suicide or other violence, call University Police at 780-5211. Remember, University Counseling Services is always available to consult if you have a concern.

Resources
University Police 780-5211
University Counseling Services 780-4050
106 Payson (P)
Upton Hall (G)
Statewide Toll Free Crisis Line: 1-888-568-1112
Ingraham Volunteers 774-HELP