Helpful Steps for Supporting Someone with Thoughts of Suicide
Supporting someone with thoughts of suicide requires empathy, patience, and a willingness to listen without judgment. Here are some steps you can take to support them:
- Listen without judgment: Allow them to express their feelings openly and without fear of criticism. Let them know that you’re there for them and that you care about their well-being.
- Take their feelings seriously: Even if their feelings seem irrational to you, it’s important to validate their emotions and let them know that you take their thoughts of suicide seriously.
- Encourage professional help: Encourage them to seek help from a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor, who can provide them with the support and treatment they need.
- Offer practical support: Help them with practical tasks or errands that may feel overwhelming to them. Offer to accompany them to therapy appointments or help them find resources in their community.
- Remove access to means: If possible, remove access to anything that could be used for self-harm, such as medications or firearms.
- Stay connected: Check in with them regularly and let them know that you’re there for them, even if they don’t always want to talk about their feelings.
- Educate yourself: Learn about suicide prevention and how to best support someone who is struggling. There are many resources available online and through organizations like Living Works who provide training in Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) and safeTalk.
- Take care of yourself: Supporting someone who is experiencing thoughts of suicide can be emotionally draining. Make sure to prioritize your own self-care and seek support from friends, family, or a therapist if needed.
Remember, while you can offer support and encouragement, ultimately the decision to seek help and get better lies with the individual. Encourage them to reach out to a professional for support and let them know that they’re not alone in their struggle.
