LISTEN to them and take them seriously. Help them feel understood.
TALK to them directly and openly about suicide without judging. Ask if they have a plan for suicide and what that plan includes. Don’t promise to keep suicide a secret.
EXPLORE feelings and what seems so painful for them. It is important for a person at risk to feel understood.
DON’T JUDGE or CRITICIZE Accept their feelings and thoughts as they are. Don’t offer false hope. Don’t try to cheer them up superficially. Don’t dare them to do it.
OFFER HONEST HOPE that there are alternatives, that you care, and that it’s possible to begin to feel better with support. Avoid giving advice or simplistic solutions.
PLAN for safety with them- get involved. Be available and responsive.
SEEK SUPPORT alternatives for the person at risk, as well as yourself. Help the person at risk connect with that support, if possible. Consider the Suicide Prevention Crisis Line as a source of 24hr support.
SAFETY If suicide is imminent, seek outside emergency intervention from sources who specialize in suicide prevention and crisis intervention. This might include a psychiatric hospital, emergency room, 911, or Suicide Prevention & Crisis Services at (916) 368-3111 or 1-800-273-8255. Do not leave them alone. Remove lethal means, if possible, without putting yourself in danger.
To learn more about Suicide Prevention check out these sites:
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