How to Help

Author: Media Coordinator, Marilyn Ho Ching
Suicide impacts American Samoan Families. Many of us know someone, such as a friend, family member, or coworker who has been affected by suicide. 

In 2020 Department of Human Social Services Deputy Director Josie Lutali, shared Statistical Yearbook for American Samoa 72 deaths were classified as suicides from 2005 to 2016. There has been an influx of suicides in the last few years among our youth, and it is crucial our community know the warning signs for someone at risk for suicide.

If you know someone who is feeling hopeless, or shows signs of extreme depression, guilt or shame. If the person shares feelings of sadness, emptiness or hopelessness, this may be a sign of depression. If they complain of sleep disturbances, or sleeping too much, or has shown a loss interest or pleasure in most or all normal activities these may be extreme signs. A person who talks about death or suicide more often than before can be a sign of suicidal thoughts. When the individual withdraws from friends, or usual activities, increased alcohol or drug use, and complains of difficulties in sleeping, eating or decrease in self-care, these can be signs of a person who is at risk for suicide.

To help those who you feel may be at risk for being suicidal, use the ACE Model (ASK, CARE, ESCORT). ASK, "are you thinking of killing yourself?" Yes, it can be awkward to ask, but research shows that people having thoughts of suicide feel relief when someone asks them in a caring way. CARE- Show they matter to you. Listen to them, and engage them without judging. These are actions of caring, and may be just what is needed to help the person feel they are not alone. ESCORT: When someone tells you they are feeling suicidal, support them by connecting them to the nearest helping resources. DO NOT leave them alone. Remove all items that may cause harm.

When we are committed to decreasing the number of suicides on island it is important to gain knowledge and know that suicide is preventable.
Throughout the month of September on our Alliance Facebook page, there will be educational posts and tips will be available and resources that are available in American Samoa for anyone feeling helpless or vulnerable.