If you are supporting someone who is suicidal, you might feel unsure of what to do, but there are lots of things that might help.
You could:
- Encourage them to talk about their feelings
- Encourage them to seek treatment and support
- Offer emotional support
- Offer practical support
- Help them think of ideas for self-help
- Help them to make a support plan
See the Signs
Here are some warning signs to look out for that could indicate someone is experiencing suicidal thoughts and feelings:
- Talking or complaining of feelings hopeless and that life is not worth living.
- Talking about feeling trapped, such as saying they can’t see any way out of their current situation
- Saying that friends and family would be better off without them.
- Talking or writing about death, dying or suicide
- A sudden lift in mood after a period of severe depression.
- Looking into methods or the means to end their own life.
- Putting all their affairs in order, such as sorting out possessions or making a will.
- Saying that they can hear voices telling them to end their own life.
If you’re worried about someone and don’t know how to tackle it, there are some things you can do to help them open up: How to start a conversation with somebody who needs help
Supporting Someone after a Suicide Attempt
When someone you care about has attempted suicide, it can be hard to know what to do or say. National Mind has lots of information on its website to help you support them and yourself. Including: