Thoughts of suicide are common and can happen to anyone. The person you know is still the same person they were before, they are just feeling very distressed and distracted at this point in time. They may certainly be just as scared about the unusual thoughts of suicide as you are for them. You should talk to them about it.

 

How to have the conversation?

 

You can often feel at a loss about what to do when it comes to beginning a conversation with someone who is at the brink of committing suicide.

 

With these 4 simple steps, learn how to help the person through this phase and to get help.

 

Step 1 : Identifying their concerns

 

Observe how the person is looking and feeling. What are they are saying and doing? What is it that indicates that the person may be having suicidal thoughts?

Consider these signs a chance to check in with the person to help or connect with them.

 

Step 2 : Ask them

A good time to talk to the person is after you have noticed their symptoms and then express your concern. Empathize with them; tell them that others in similar situations have had thoughts of suicide. This might help them open up. Do not ask directly or they might hesitate to speak about what they are going through.

 

 

Step 3 : Listen

Show them that you are open and willing to listen will help the person to not feel uncomfortable. Remain calm and non-judgmental. Allow them to express their worries. It can be tempting to offer solutions and deal with the problem at this point, but don’t jump to problem-solving. Listen to their concerns and show that you’re taking their experiences seriously.

 

Step 4 : Help them

Be honest in telling them that you are concerned and that you are willing to support them even if it may require extra help. Show them that you care and assist them to get extra help if required.

 

By starting conversations about suicide, we can all contribute to suicide prevention. Developing skills to respond we are preparing ourselves to protect someone when they are at their most vulnerable.