Suicide Education & Support Services

What to Say

Ask

• Express your concern and ask if they are thinking about suicide
• Don't give up if they are reluctant to talk, let them know you are there to listen

Listen

• Don't act shocked or try to change the subject
• Encourage them to tell you how they feel
• Hear them out, don't jump to conclusions or make judgments

Respond

• Be direct, open and honest
• Let them know you care and they are not alone
• Help them to understand that suicidal feelings pass and depression can be treated
• Do not try to handle a suicidal crisis alone, get professional help

What to do

If you suspect someone may be suicidal, trust your instincts and never keep suicidal plans a secret. Remember, it's better to have an angry friend then to not have them at all.

Do not leave a suicidal person alone, stay with the person until their crisis passes.  Encourage them to seek professional help.

Remove any lethal means. By removing the means you "de-rail' their plan and buy time to get help. "Lethal means" may include firearms, drugs, medication, knives, razor blades or access to a car.

Take the person to the emergency room or call the crisis hotline.