Last Updated on March 10, 2025
Have you ever suspected that someone you know may be having suicidal thoughts? Perhaps you’ve noticed your partner become uncharacteristically withdrawn, giving away prized possessions out-of-the-blue, or “getting affairs in order.” Or maybe a friend or family member who struggles with high anxiety, and has become completely isolated and depressed. No matter the situation, suffering comes in many forms. The pain and hopelessness someone feels, whether emotional or physical, can be all-encompassing and can unfortunately breed thoughts of self-harm or even suicide.
When we suspect that someone might be thinking about suicide, it is important to know that we can help. You don’t have to be a doctor or licensed counselor to help save a life. All you need is a little courage and some helpful strategies and resources to get your friend, family member, or co-worker the help they need.
How to talk to someone who may be considering suicide
Talking about suicide can be intimidating – this feeling is completely normal. Some may tip-toe around the topic due to fear of making matters worse or inducing suicidal thoughts, but the opposite is actually true. Providing the person with the opportunity to dialogue about their feelings is much more helpful than ignoring them and can pave the way for accessing the help they need. The key is to keep it simple. Be direct as possible while offering a caring and judgement-free space for this person to just talk. If you find yourself in a situation where someone is considering suicide, here are a couple of tips to follow:
- Let them know you care and that they are not alone.
- Ask them directly, in a caring manner if they are thinking of ending their life.
- Ask if they have a plan and/or means to do so.
- Use empathy. You can say something like, “I can’t imagine how painful this must be for you and I’m here to listen if you would like to help me understand.”
- Inquire about reasons for living (kids, pets, anything!).
- Try to contact professional support for the person considering suicide (see section below for resources).
What types of resources are available for in-the-moment support?
There are varying levels of support when it comes to helping someone who is contemplating suicide. All of these resources will have mental health professionals or highly trained volunteers to help you assess the best course of action, whether that be getting the person to a hospital for evaluation or helping them create a safety plan.
- Call, text, or chat 988 to reach a trained crisis counselor
- Available 24/7
- Can help with suicidal thoughts, substance abuse issues, and other emotional distress
- A national network of crisis centers supported by SAMHSA
*One key area of overlap between 911 and 988 occurs when there is an imminent risk to the 988 user’s life (an ongoing suicide attempt, for example). While the 988 coordinated response is intended to promote stabilization and care in the least restrictive manner, in the case of imminent danger, 988 calls are connected to emergency services like 911. Currently, fewer than 2% of Lifeline calls require this connection.
- Text HOME to 741741 to reach a trained crisis counselor
- Can help with suicidal thoughts, domestic violence, sexual abuse, and other crises
- A secure online platform that connects callers with volunteers
EAP (Employee Assistance Programs)
- Most have a 24 hour support line for crisis calls and can link to free short-term counseling
- For those of you in management positions at your workplace, offer a QPR workshop that focuses on suicide prevention
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please know help is available, people do care, and you are not alone. Many mental health agencies and practices are ready and willing to help.
We have resources for ongoing support.
If you want to learn more about our services or practice how to talk to someone you love about suicide and live in Arizona, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, or Texas, we can help. Contact us to get started. We offer virtual and in-person sessions.