Talking About Suicide: 5 Key Steps for Supporting a Loved One

Each year, 700,000 lives are lost globally to suicide – creating far-reaching social and emotional consequences. Despite this startling data, suicide remains a topic too often clouded by stigma and silence. Starting a conversation about suicide with someone you care about can feel daunting, but it’s a crucial first step to getting them the help they need.

Below are 5 steps anyone can take to address concerns of suicide with a loved one, creating a safe space for open dialogue and support.

1. 1. Ask About Suicide: Choose and private and safe space. Begin the conversation by sharing your concern in a non-judgmental way.
   2. Listen Attentively: Listen without judgment and with empathy and respect. Acknowledge their pain and validate their feelings.
   3. Develop a Safety Plan: If your loved one expresses suicidal thoughts, it’s important to ensure their immediate safety.
   4. Encourage Professional Help: Let them know you want to help and connect them with professional support.
   5. Follow Up Regularly: After the initial conversation, check in regularly to see how they are doing and remind them of your ongoing support.

1.  To learn more about suicide including warning signs and risk factors, click here.

Helpful Resources

Didi Hirsch’s Suicide Prevention Center

Didi Hirsch’s Suicide Prevention Center, the largest and most comprehensive of its kind, offers specialized care both in-person and via telehealth. Visit crisiscare.org to explore a range of therapy options, including individual, family and group sessions, as well as peer-facilitated support groups. These support groups are available for Survivors After Suicide (SAS) and Survivors of Suicide Attempts (SOSA), as well as for individuals at higher risk due to their professions, such as first responders.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, compassionate and confidential support 24/7, via call, text and chat. The 988 Lifeline is available if you are looking for guidance on how to support someone in your life who is struggling.

The 988 Lifeline also offers specialized lines:

• • Dial ‘1’ for Veterans
  • Dial ‘2’ for Spanish

Teen Line

Contact Teen Line, a program of Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services, for free, empathetic and confidential peer-to-peer support for teens, by teens nationwide by texting TEEN to 839863 (6 p.m. – 9 p.m. PST), calling (800) 852-8336 (6 p.m. – 10 p.m. PST) or sending an email.