It can be very frightening to find out that someone you know is thinking about suicide. You might be unsure about what to say or do.
You can’t control what someone else does. Suicide is complex and there are many reasons why someone might think about taking their own life.
But there are ways that you can help:
- know the warning signs
- ask them directly
- listen and take them seriously
- provide options
- encourage them to get help.
Know the warning signs
Feeling suicidal can happen to anyone, at any time. Many people go through this.
Some people are at greater risk of feeling suicidal.
Some risk factors are:
- mental health issues
- feeling isolated or disconnected from other people
- drug or alcohol use
- trauma, violence or abuse
- bullying
- recently starting or stopping medication for a mental health problem
- breaking up with a partner or losing a job
- the death of someone close
- an embarrassing or humiliating experience
- losing a large amount of money
- being part of a marginalised community
