A person may need emergency measures after attempting suicide. First aid, CPR, or mouth-to-mouth resuscitation may be needed.

Hospitalization is often needed to treat a suicide attempt and to prevent future attempts. Mental health intervention is one of the most important aspects of treatment.

After suicidal behavior is addressed, any underlying disorders should be treated (such as major depression, bipolar disorder, or alcohol dependence).

Adolescents may fail to seek help for suicidal thoughts, for all of the following reasons:

• They believe nothing will help
• They are reluctant to tell anyone they have problems
• They think it is a sign of weakness to seek help
• They do not know where to go for help

There are numbers that you can call from anywhere in the United States, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: 1-800-SUICIDE or 1-800-999-9999.

Suicide attempts and threats should always be taken seriously. About one-third of people who attempt suicide will repeat the attempt within 1 year, and about 10% of those who threaten or attempt suicide eventually do kill themselves.

Mental health care should be sought immediately. Dismissing the person's behavior as attention-seeking can have devastating consequences.

Complications vary depending on the type of suicide attempt.

Call a health care provider right away if you notice one or more suicide warning signs.