How to help someone who is struggling
In short: if you're worried about someone, ask them how they're doing, listen without judging, and help them find support. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911 or your local emergency number.
Signs someone may be struggling
- Withdrawing from friends, family or activities
- Changes in sleep, appetite or mood
- Drinking or using drugs more
- Talking about feeling hopeless, trapped or a burden
- Giving away possessions or saying goodbye
Starting the conversation
- Pick a quiet moment and a private place.
- Ask directly. "I've noticed you seem down lately. How are you really doing?" It's okay to ask whether they're thinking about suicide. Asking doesn't put the idea in their head.
- Listen. Let them talk. You don't need to fix things or have the right words.
- Don't judge or argue. Take what they say seriously.
Helping them get support
- Encourage them to talk to a doctor or mental health professional, and offer to help book or go with them.
- Share crisis lines, such as 988 in the U.S.
- Keep in touch. A follow-up message in the days after can make a real difference.
- If they're at risk, help keep them safe by reducing access to things they could use to harm themselves.
Look after yourself too
Supporting someone can be hard. Talk to someone you trust about how you're feeling.
If you're in crisis or thinking about harming yourself, get help now. In the U.S., call or text 988 (the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or chat at 988lifeline.org. Elsewhere, call your local emergency number. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911 or your local emergency number.
Sources
- NIMH: 5 action steps to help someone having thoughts of suicide
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Help someone else
- CDC: Suicide prevention