Create your own emergency plan.

Apparently, a large number of depression-related suicides are reported to take place within the first three major depressive episodes. This is said to be significant because after three episodes a person learns that such crises are temporary and really do pass. Albeit only for a period.

Knowing that these episodes will eventually pass, individuals are much more unlikely to act on suicidal impulses. Indeed,  these impulsive acts are said to drop significantly once this lesson has been learnt. With this in mind, it is important to know what triggers these episodes. Journaling can be of great assistance in providing you with an accurate list of your warning signs.

Once you have identified your triggers you can devise a list of things to do to avoid or diffuse these triggers. This done you can then use this information to outline what needs to be done in times of crisis.

Developing these personal emergency plans seems to be a very useful precaution. Not only would this plan contain a list of your warning signs. It could also list every possible course of action that you could take if you feel yourself slipping into suicidal thoughts. Your coping strategies etc. What you want others to do, and what you don't want others to do.

It should also contain vital contact information of your support team's telephone numbers. Including mobile numbers. Other contact information for family, friends, supporters and others.  Most importantly your plan should contain a clear and full medical diagnosis or description – including details of any medications.

Almost as important for those in countries where treatment appears to be dependant upon Health Insurance -  make sure your documents are up to date.