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Listen: help your friend to talk about whatever is painful or distressing and offer them emotional support.
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Express concern and care.
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Ask direct questions about suicidal thoughts, plans or intentions. Listen to what is said and treat it seriously.
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Avoid criticizing, sounding judgmental, minimizing or blaming.
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Always take suicidal statements, thoughts or behaviors very seriously.
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Encourage the person to seek help. Offer to accompany them to talk to a Resident Assistant (RA), or to the Center for Counseling and Psychological Health or University Health Services.
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If you feel a person is in immediate danger, stay with them and call an RA, Campus Police (413) 545-1212, or 911.
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Talk with a counselor or someone you trust. This allows you to share the responsibility with others, attend to your own need for support, and learn how to best help your friend.