The “SAVE” Method of crisis intervention
A suggestion on what you can do in the event that you have the opportunity to talk to someone
experiencing a Suicidal Crisis
Anyone can help a person contemplating Suicide or experiencing crisis:
Remember the word SAVE and be ready to act on the suggestions when needed:
- S- SIGNS, watch for signs that might suggest someone is in distress, i.e., depressed , moody, just received bad news, etc. If you suspicion suicidal thoughts then–
- A- ASK the individual if they are okay, really ask. Test their answers if they seem to hold back.
- V- Validate their feelings. You listen and you listen. You listen with an empathetic ear, and validate what they are feeling—Not what you are feeling! You validate what they are feeling—Be empathetic. You don’t lecture or tell them everything is okay. If they feel that their world is caving in on them, they feel it; try to understand their feelings. It doesn’t matter what you feel.
- E- ESCORT them to safety as might be appropriate. Encourage them to get help. Take them to an Emergency Room, call 988 option #1, or 911, or call Veteran Crisis Line, stay with them until you can have a “warm hand off” to someone else. After venting and supportive discussion, they may be safe. Only leave them alone if situation truly resolves and is unquestionably safe. —If in doubt, seek a second opinion.
Veteran Crisis line: Call 988 option #1, or 1-800 273-8255 Press 1
or send a text message to 838255 to receive confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Support for deaf and hard of hearing individuals is available.
OR simply call 911 or take to an emergency room.