Learn the warning signs of someone struggling and start the conversation to prevent suicide:

Warning Signs of Suicide

  • Severe behavior change: withdrawing, isolating or sudden improvement of mood.
  • Historical factor: family history of suicide or previous attempt.
  • Health condition: mental health or serious physical health issue.
  • Environmental impact: stress, access to means or loss.

How to Have a Conversation

  • Asking about suicide will not plant the idea in someone’s head.
  • Ask directly… Are you thinking of killing yourself?
  • Talk about suicide as you would about any other health condition.
  • Listen and let the person know you care about them and want them to be safe.

Youth and Suicide

  • By asking directly about suicide, you are giving them a chance to talk about their thoughts and feelings.
  • Youth often do not reveal if a peer is thinking of suicide – tell them to find a trusted adult. There are some secrets one cannot keep.
  • Maintain a connection and prioritize safety.
  • Stay calm and do not leave the youth alone – find a supportive agency or adult who can help with resources.

Crisis services are available to any Arizona resident, regardless of health insurance coverage. If you or someone you know is experiencing a behavioral health crisis, please call one of these national or local crisis lines:

  • COVID-19 Crisis Counseling
    • Call 2-1-1 for free COVID-19 crisis counseling. www.ResilientArizona.org
    • Llame al 2-1-1 para conectarse con un proveedor de consejería.
  • National 24-Hour Crisis Hotlines
    • Phone
      • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
      • National Substance Use and Disorder Issues Referral and Treatment Hotline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
    • Text
      • Text the word “HOME” to 741741
  • Suicide and Crisis Hotlines by County
    • Maricopa County served by Mercy Care: 1-800-631-1314 or 602-222-9444
    • Cochise, Graham, Greenlee, La Paz, Pima, Pinal, Santa Cruz and Yuma Counties served by Arizona Complete Health – Complete Care Plan: 1-866-495-6735
    • Apache, Coconino, Gila, Mohave, Navajo and Yavapai Counties served by Health Choice Arizona: 1-877-756-4090
    • Gila River and Ak-Chin Indian Communities: 1-800-259-3449
    • Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community: 1-855-331-6432
  • Especially for Kids & Teens
    • Teen Lifeline phone or text: 602-248-TEEN (8336)
    • The Trevor Project 1-866-488-7386 (Youth who identify as LGBTQ)
    • One-n-ten https://onenten.org/
  • Especially for Veterans
    • Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 (press 1)
    • Be Connected: 1-866-4AZ-VETS (429-8387)
  • Especially for Seniors
    • 24-Hour Senior HELP LINE – 602-264-4357 (HELP)
  • Peer-operated Warm Line
    • The Peer Warm line is staffed by trained peers (members with lived experience overcoming mental illness) who provide a friendly voice, support and help to alleviate loneliness and isolation. 1-844-733-9912.
  • Tribal Warm Line
    • Need someone to talk to? Need help? Feeling down? Help is available. Confidential American Indian Support Service. 1-855-728-8630.

Listed below are both local and national agencies to help individuals and families in need of mental health resources:

Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS)
Arizona Complete Health
NAMI Arizona
Maricopa County
Solari
Mental Health America of Arizona
COPA Health
Arizona Department of Child Safety
Arizona Department of Education
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention