A crisis tends to be temporary and self-limiting. One need not probe deeply into a suicidal person s psyche or background to determine the root cause. The crisis moving the person in this direction is generally in the forefront of his thoughts. A therapist, clergyman, or friend need only ask the person about it. Individuals in crisis are generally receptive to those who reach out to listen and to help.
Many crises follow stages that are readily identifiable.
Effective help in resolving the crisis does not have to come from trained mental-health professionals. A friend or relative with a listening and compassionate ear is extremely effective and often preferred. The crisis follows a process. The first element is the precipitating event causing the person to lose hope to the extent of wanting to take his or her life. This crisis causes an initial rise in tension, which in turn initiates habitual problem-solving responses.