This communication, however, should be carefully managed and the individual should be encouraged to seek professional help. People who try to kill themselves are usually suffering from a mental illness. The suicidal act is a typical, well thought out expression of an attempt to cope with serious personal problems. They cannot see another solution to their problems and so often act on impulse. If someone wants to commit suicide, there is usually no way to prevent it.
Most suicidal persons are ambivalent and looking for a means of escape.
Most do not want death but want to end the pain they feel. For some, suicide seems like the only way to cry for help and professional help will help to reduce the risk of suicide. Eighty percent of persons who die by suicide have made at least one previous attempt. Once someone is suicidal, they will be suicidal forever. A suicidal person is usually only suicidal for a limited period of time.