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Call 988 and press 4 for the Native and Strong Lifeline, available 24/7.

Suicide
Warning Signs

Most people show signs when they’re thinking about suicide. If you see these signs in a friend or relative, get support from people trained to help: 

  • Isolation and avoiding things they used to enjoy
  • Big changes in personality, outlook on life, or performance at work and school
  • Sleeping much more than usual, or hardly at all
  • Talking, joking, or researching about death
  • Acting recklessly or giving away possessions
  • Using more alcohol or drugs, especially if they’re talking about suicide or self-harm while under the influence
  • Feeling hopeless, depressed, anxious, angry or humiliated, or saying they are a burden to others 

Start a Conversation

Ask questions and listen without judgment. Let them know you’re there for them.

Call the Native Lifeline.​

  • Call 988 and press 4 for confidential support from a Native counselor, available 24/7.
  • 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline calls are answered by caring people trained to help you through life’s challenges.
  • Conversations are private and confidential.

Use the crisis text line.​

  • Text  “NATIVE” to 741741.

  • You’ll reach someone ready to support you during a crisis, 24/7.

  • You also can text if you need to talk to someone or help a loved one.

Call 911 or your tribal emergency line.​

If someone is in the process of attempting suicide or facing a life-threatening situation, it is crucial to call emergency responders immediately. When you reach out, inform the dispatcher that your loved one is experiencing a mental health crisis. This will help ensure they receive the appropriate care and support they need.

The Native & Strong campaign was developed in partnership with the 29 federally recognized tribes in Washington and the Washington State Department of Health (WA DOH). Rooted in the belief that Connection is Prevention, this suicide prevention campaign is led by the leadership, wisdom, and priorities of Washington tribes, with the support of WA DOH. Through this government-to-government collaboration, Native & Strong focuses on raising awareness, providing education, and sharing resources to support local efforts in preventing suicide and strengthening the well-being of tribal communities now and for future generations. To support this work DOH has contracted with Kauffman and Associates, Inc., an American Indian owned communications firm on community technical support, outreach, and campaign dissemination. 

— Connection is Prevention! 

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Contact information:
Gerry.RainingBird@doh.wa.gov
Kathy.Pierre@doh.wa.gov
NativeandStrong@kauffmaninc.com

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