How Can I Help Others?

If someone you know is at risk for Suicide... Take it Seriously


Know What to Do


  • If there is an emergency, call 911 or go to the hospital

  • Call a local crisis line (even if you are not the person in crisis)

  • Calmly listen

  • Be sensitive to how the person is feeling

  • Never swear secrecy

  • If you have noticed warning signs, talk with the person about what you have observed

and ask questions to allow them to open up

  • Encourage Professional Help

  • Educate yourself on local services that can help

  • Empower the person and give them the crisis line phone numbers

  • Don’t forget to take care of yourself – it’s especially important

when supporting others!


Know What to Say


  • Say something! Don’t be afraid of sounding clumsy

  • Be patient, compassionate, and non-judgmental

  • Ask the person how they are feeling and if they are thinking

of suicide

  • If someone is suicidal, talking about suicide will not put them

at greater risk

  • Really listen. Give 100% of your attention

  • Be sensitive, but direct

  • Let the person know you are concerned, and give examples of why

  • Example: “I’ve noticed that you’ve been not yourself lately,

I’m concerned about you. Could we talk about it?”



Note: If someone considering suicide already has a suicide plan and the means to carry it out, don’t leave them alone. Treat the situation as an emergency (see Finding Help below). Call a crisis line. Stay with them until crisis workers or other emergency workers are there to help.



If you feel someone is in danger now...please call 911 or go to the hospital emergency room