10/10/2025
Remember: WAIT when assessing mental health emergencies.
WATCH out for signs of distress, a change in behaviour and or physical signs e.g. Isolation from others, social withdrawal, irritability, emotional outbursts crying/aggressive, talking about death or su***de.
ASK “are you having suicidal thoughts?”
Asking about suicidal thoughts does not mean that you will encourage it or lead a person to start considering it. In fact, it can prevent it, and this could encourage a life-saving conversation.
IT WILL PASS – assure the person that with help, their feelings of su***de will pass in time.
TALK TO OTHERS – encourage the person to seek help from their GP or health professional, or maybe somebody that they trust.
Text to 988 for immediate help, 24/7/365.