Being There: A Practical Guide to Supporting Someone with Suicidal Thoughts
September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness and share resources about suicide prevention, to remember the lives lost by suicide, and to support those grieving a loved one by suicide. Over the course of the next few weeks we will be providing resources on how to support a loved one experiencing thoughts of suicide, how to support someone grieving the loss of a loved one, and ways to break the stigma around suicide.
Supporting someone with suicidal thoughts is a delicate and critical task that requires compassion, understanding, and awareness. Suicide is complex and often determined by multiple factors. Here are key steps to help guide you in offering support:
1. Recognize the Warning Signs
Be aware of signs like talking about wanting to die, expressing hopelessness, talking about being a burden to others, withdrawing from others, or engaging in risky behaviors. If you notice these signs, take them seriously and don’t dismiss them.
2. Approach with Empathy
When you suspect someone is struggling, approach them with care. Let them know you care for them and that they aren’t alone. Be mindful that you might not know exactly how they are feeling but do your best to understand their pain.
Ask them directly if they are thinking about hurting themselves. This does not put the idea in their head and often asking direct questions helps the individual feel seen, heard, and supported.
3. Listen Without Judgment
Let them share their feelings without interruption. Show that you’re listening by repeating what they are saying but in your own language. Avoid dismissive statements.
4. Offer Support, Not Solutions
Instead of trying to fix things, ask how you can help and be present for them. Sometimes, just being there can provide significant comfort.
5. Remove any objects that could be used for Suicide
If someone has shared with you the means they’ve considered to harm themself, you can offer to remove the objects and hold onto them.
6. Encourage Professional Help
Encourage them to seek help from a therapist or counselor. Offer to help find resources or accompany them to appointments if they’re comfortable with it.
7. Stay Connected
Regularly check in with them, especially during tough times. Suggest simple activities to encourage social engagement and show continued support.
8. Take Care of Yourself
Supporting someone in crisis can be emotionally taxing. Make sure to care for your own mental health by seeking support, setting boundaries, and knowing your limits.
9. Know When to Seek Emergency Help
If they express an immediate intent to harm themselves, don’t leave them alone. Call emergency services or take them to a hospital immediately.
Conclusion
Supporting someone with suicidal thoughts is about being there, listening, and showing compassion. It’s okay if you feel like you don’t know the right thing to say. Being there and listening can go a long way. Encourage them to seek professional help and remember to take care of yourself, too. If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out to a professional or call a hotline immediately—help is available.
Suicide Support Hotlines:
Call or Text 988 https://988lifeline.org/
