Foundation 2 Can Help

Talking with a friend or loved one who has thoughts of ending their life can be frightening. It can be hard to know how to help, but Foundation 2 is here for you. If you are having thoughts of suicide or are concerned about a friend who shows signs that they may be suicidal, Foundation 2 is here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We can coach you on ways to talk to a friend and will be a resource for your friend when they are ready to connect with help.

Warning Signs and Risk Factors

  • Making a suicide plan—the more specific the plan, the higher the risk
  • Statements revealing thoughts of death, such as “I won’t be around much longer,” “It’s hopeless,” or “I won’t be missed when I’m gone.”
  • Access to available means (firearms, medications)
  • Depression (crying, sleeplessness, loss of appetite, hopelessness, isolation, helplessness, anger at oneself or the world)
  • Previous suicide attempt(s)
  • Recent loss of a friend or family member through death or suicide
  • The anniversary date of a loss is approaching
  • Other losses, such as the loss of a parent through divorce, a job loss or an ended relationship
  • Giving or throwing away favorite possessions
  • No planning for the future
  • Use or increased use of drugs and/or alcohol
  • Sudden change in behavior—acts differently or personality seems to change for no obvious reason; becomes aggressive, destructive or defiant
  • Chronic headaches or stomachaches, fatigue
  • New involvement with high-risk activities
  • Sudden, dramatic decline or improvement in schoolwork
  • Chronic physical or mental illness or disability

Suicide Helplines:

Local:

Statewide (Iowa):

National:

What Professional Help Can Offer

  • An objective, caring listener who can share other more hopeful sides of the picture.
  • Help in determining what needs to be changed, finding solutions that aren’t as permanent as suicide.
  • Help to identify the resources needed for these changes.
  • Medication for depression when appropriate.
  • Hospitalization – a safe place to regain energy and work on problems.

How can you help someone showing warnings signs or at risk of suicide?

More resources for those with thoughts of suicide:

Foundation 2 Chat and Text

Text 800-332-4224 and follow the prompts. Chat and text are available Mon-Fri, 9AM to 3PM.

ImAlive

Online crisis chat network staffed by trained volunteers.

The Trevor Project

A national 24-hour, toll free confidential suicide hotline for gay and questioning youth.  Reach help anytime by calling 1-866-488-7386.

Your Life Iowa

Young people across Iowa can connect with YourLifeIowa through phone, online chat, or texting. Connect with help by calling 1-855-581-8111, texting 1-855-895-TEXT (8398).

Lifeline Crisis Chat

Connect with online crisis support anytime day or night.

Trans Lifeline

This hotline is staffed by transgender people for transgender people experiencing a crisis.  Connect with help by calling 1-877-565-8860.