How to Help Someone with Suicidal Thoughts

When someone you care about is experiencing suicidal thoughts, it can feel overwhelming. However, there are critical steps you can take to help them through this difficult time. Immediate intervention and ongoing support are vital in making sure they get the help they need.

If someone is in immediate danger, it’s important to connect them with crisis support as quickly as possible. These resources can provide the necessary intervention to keep them safe.

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) 
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741-741 for confidential 24/7 support.
• Emergency Services: Call 988 if someone is at immediate risk.

Supporting someone with suicidal thoughts is challenging, but your empathy and action can make a huge difference. Here are some key actions you can take:

1. Listen and Take Their Words Seriously
   Never minimize their feelings. If a friend is talking about suicide, take it seriously. Suicidal thoughts are not typically just a cry for attention—they are real, and they need to be addressed with care and concern.
2. Ask Direct Questions
   To understand the severity of their thoughts, ask direct questions like: “Are you having thoughts of ending your life?” or “Do you have a plan or means to carry it out?”
3. Encourage Open Dialogue
   Let them share their feelings in a non-judgmental way. This open communication can provide relief and make them feel less isolated in their struggles.
4. Offer Ongoing Support
   A conversation doesn’t solve everything. Continue checking in with them to offer reassurance and keep them connected to help.
5. Seek Emergency Help When Necessary
   If they are at immediate risk, don’t hesitate to call 988, a crisis hotline, or take them to a hospital. It’s crucial to act quickly to get them the help they need.

If you want to be better equipped to support others, consider taking suicide prevention and intervention training. Programs like LivingWorks Start teach individuals how to recognize when someone is thinking about suicide and how to connect them to help.

These courses can help build a safer, more supportive environment and prepare you to make a positive impact on those at risk.

If you are supporting children, this program can help start conversations about emotions in a fun and engaging way to help kids understand and express their feelings.

These resources can empower you to act effectively when you notice signs of suicidal ideation in someone you care about. By being prepared and informed, you can make a significant impact in supporting those who need help and save lives in the process.