For Someone Else
Your support can make a significant difference for someone who is thinking of suicide. Here are some steps to assist someone who may be contemplating suicide:
What you can do
- Take it seriously: If someone confides in you about their suicidal thoughts or intentions, take it seriously. Avoid minimizing their feelings or telling them to “snap out of it.”
- Listen non-judgmentally: Create a safe and non-judgmental space for them to discuss their feelings. Let them express their thoughts and emotions without criticism or judgment.
- Show empathy and compassion: Let the person know you care about their well-being. Show empathy and understanding by saying things like, “I’m here for you,” or “I’m sorry you’re feeling this way.”
- Ask directly about suicide: While it may be uncomfortable, ask the person directly if they are thinking about suicide. This can open up an honest conversation and allow them to express their feelings.
- Keep them safe: If the person has a plan and access to means (e.g., pills, firearms) for suicide, try to remove or restrict access to those means. This can be a crucial step in preventing a suicide attempt.
- Encourage professional help: Encourage the person to seek professional help from a mental health therapist, counselor, or psychiatrist. Offer to help them find resources and make appointments.
- Offer to accompany them: If they are willing, offer to accompany them to their appointments or help them call a crisis helpline. Sometimes, the presence of a supportive person can make it easier for them to seek help.
- Stay connected: Keep in touch with the person regularly, even via texts or quick check-ins. Let them know you care about their well-being.
- Involve trusted individuals: If you’re concerned about their safety, involve other trusted friends or family members who can provide support and assistance.
- Don’t promise secrecy: While you should respect their privacy, do not promise to keep their suicidal thoughts a secret if they are in immediate danger. Their safety should be the top priority.
- Know crisis helplines: Be aware of crisis helplines and hotlines in your area, such as the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (dial 988 for support) or Crisis Text Line (Text HELLO to 741-741). Encourage the person to contact these resources if they need immediate help.
Remember
You are not expected to be a mental health professional, but your support and compassion can play a crucial role in helping someone who is thinking of suicide. Encourage them to seek professional help, and don’t hesitate to dial 988 for crisis support. You don’t have to be the one in crisis to call.
One Step Ahead
Our free, virtual, self-led suicide prevention training provides information about the basic facts of suicide including prominent risk factors, protective factors, and warning signs. One Step Ahead explores the four-step process for preventing suicide: Ask, listen, respond, and follow up. The training includes a series of interactive modules and a virtual conversation activity where trainees can practice the necessary skills to support someone who is experiencing suicidal ideation.
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