Need help now? Call 1-800-273-TALK(8255)

Onondaga County
Suicide Prevention
Coalition

The Onondaga County Suicide Prevention Coalition (OCSPC) is a collaboration of stakeholders devoted to creating a suicide-safer community.

Our Mission

Our mission is to link our community with suicide prevention resources to reduce stigma, promote help-seeking and save lives.

We can all prevent Suicide

Understanding the issues concerning suicide and mental health is an important way to take part in suicide prevention, help others in crisis and change the conversation around suicide.

Have an honest, open conversation

If you think someone is thinking about suicide, assume you are the only one who will reach out.

Here’s how to talk to someone who may be struggling with their mental health:

  • Talk to them in private and tell them you care.
  • Listen to their story.
  • Avoid debating the value of life, minimizing their problems or giving advice.
  • It’s okay to directly ask about suicide.
  • Encourage them to seek help or to contact their doctor or therapist.

If a person says they are considering suicide:

  • Take the person seriously.
  • Stay with them.
  • Help them remove lethal means.

Know the Warning Signs

Some warning signs may help you determine if a loved one is at risk for suicide, especially if the behavior is new, has increased, or seems related to a painful event, loss, or change. If you or someone you know exhibits any of these, seek help by calling the Lifeline.

  • Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves
  • Looking for a way to kill themselves, like searching online or buying a gun
  • Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
  • Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
  • Talking about being a burden to others
  • Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
  • Sleeping too little or too much
  • Withdrawing or isolating themselves
  • Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
  • Extreme mood swings

Talking with someone about
your thoughts and feelings
can save your life

People call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline to talk about lots of things including substance abuse, economic worries, sexual identity, help with domestic violence or other forms of abuse, depression, mental and physical illness, and loneliness, to name a few.

Call the Lifeline now to speak to someone 24/7.

Talk to Someone Now

If you’re thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline now – 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

The Lifeline is free, confidential and available to everyone 24/7.