Tools for Tough Times: Do's and Don'ts for Talking About Suicide

If you have someone you love who is thinking of suicide, you can be the one who keeps them safe. It can be scary to have these conversations. I know; I had one yesterday. Fortunately, I've been trained how to talk about it and how to support someone struggling with suicidal thoughts. Here are a few resources in case you need to be the one, too:

Do's and Don'ts for talking about Suicide:

Do:

Be direct. Talk openly and matter-of-factly about suicide.

Be willing to listen. Allow expressions of feelings. Accept the feelings.

Be non-judgmental. Don’t debate whether suicide is right or wrong, or whether feelings are good or bad. Don’t lecture on the value of life.

Get involved. Become available. Show interest and support.

Offer hope that alternatives are available but do not offer glib reassurance.

Take action. Remove means, like weapons or pills.

Get help from people or agencies specializing in crisis intervention and suicide prevention.

Don’t:

Don’t dare him or her to do it.

Don’t act shocked. This will put distance between you.

Don’t be sworn to secrecy. Seek support.