How To Help Someone Who Is Suicidal

Supporting someone who is struggling with suicidal thoughts can be daunting and emotionally taxing. However, your willingness to offer help and listen can make a significant difference in their ability to cope and seek the support they need. This blog post provides actionable steps to help you navigate this challenging situation and offer meaningful assistance.

Recognize the Signs

Understanding and recognizing the signs of suicidal ideation is crucial. While each individual may exhibit different signs, there are some common indicators to be aware of:

Verbal Cues: Statements of hopelessness, worthlessness, or direct comments about wanting to die or end their life.
Behavioral Changes: Withdrawal from friends and family, loss of interest in activities, changes in eating or sleeping habits, and increased use of alcohol or drugs.
Emotional Distress: Displays of extreme sadness, mood swings, anxiety, or anger.
Preparation Actions: Giving away prized possessions, writing a will, or saying goodbye in an unusual manner.

If you notice these signs in someone, it’s essential to take them seriously and consider them potential red flags for suicidal thoughts.

Step 1: Initiate the Conversation

Starting a conversation about suicide is difficult but critical. Approach the person with care and empathy, choosing a quiet and private setting. Begin the conversation with expressions of concern and willingness to help:

“I’ve noticed you’ve been feeling very down lately, and I’m really concerned about you. Can we talk about what’s going on?”

Be direct yet gentle when asking about suicidal thoughts. You might say:

“Are you thinking about hurting yourself or ending your life?”

Contrary to popular belief, discussing suicide does not plant the idea in someone’s mind but opens a door for them to communicate their feelings.

Step 2: Listen Without Judgement

When someone opens up about their suicidal thoughts, it’s crucial to listen without judgment. Allow them to express their emotions and thoughts fully. Practice active listening by:

Maintaining eye contact
Nodding to show understanding
Avoiding interruption
Reflecting back what they say to show you’re engaged

Avoid dismissive comments like “You’ll be fine,” or “You have so much to live for.” Such statements may invalidate their feelings.

Instead, acknowledge their pain. Saying, “It sounds like you’re going through a really tough time,” can help them feel heard and understood.

Step 3: Offer Support and Solutions

Validate their feelings and remind them that help is available. Offer practical support such as:

Professional Help: Encourage them to seek help from a mental health professional. Offer to help find a therapist or accompany them to appointments.
Crisis Hotlines: Provide crisis hotline numbers, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK), and encourage them to use these resources.
Continued Support: Let them know you will be there for them. Regular check-ins and accompanying them to therapy sessions can provide important support.

Offer to assist with immediate stressors, whether it’s helping with daily tasks, providing a distraction, or simply being physically present.

Step 4: Ensure Their Safety

In cases where the risk of suicide seems imminent, ensuring their safety becomes paramount. Remove any means of self-harm, such as firearms, medications, or sharp objects from their environment.

If they express a concrete plan for suicide, do not leave them alone. Call emergency services or take them to the nearest emergency room. It’s better to overreact and ensure their safety than to miss the opportunity to intervene appropriately.

Step 5: Promote a Supportive Environment

Fostering a supportive environment is essential for someone struggling with suicidal thoughts. Reassure them that seeking help is a brave and important step. Encourage positive coping mechanisms, such as:

Therapy and Medication: If they are not already receiving treatment, help them connect with a mental health professional.
Self-Care: Encourage regular physical activity, proper nutrition, adequate sleep, and engagement in activities they enjoy.
Social Connections: Encourage them to maintain or rebuild connections with friends and family who can provide additional support.

Step 6: Follow Up

Consistently check in to show continued support and concern. Suicidal thoughts might not resolve immediately, and ongoing support can provide a crucial lifeline. Follow up with:

Regular phone calls or visits.
Encouragement to attend therapy or support groups.
Reminders of available resources and crisis hotlines.

Checking in reinforces that they are not alone and that their well-being is important to you.

Step 7: Take Care of Yourself

Helping someone with suicidal thoughts can be emotionally draining. Ensure you have your support systems in place. Talk to trusted friends, family, or a therapist about your feelings and experiences. Self-care is essential to maintain your own mental health while supporting someone else.

Get Help For Someone Who Is Suicidal Today Through Our Professional Mental Health Treatment in Massachusetts

At Pursuance Behavioral, we understand the complexity and gravity of suicidal thoughts and the importance of timely intervention. Our mental health treatment program in Massachusetts offers comprehensive support tailored to each individual’s needs. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, reach out to us for compassionate and evidence-based care. You can make a profound difference by guiding them towards the professional help they need. Contact us at Pursuance Behavioral today to learn more about our programs and how we can help you and your loved one take steps towards recovery and hope.

By recognizing the signs and taking proactive steps, you can play a vital role in helping someone navigate through one of the most challenging times in their life. Your support, understanding, and connection can be the key to their recovery and renewed sense of hope.