How to Help a Friend Having Suicidal Thoughts: 7 Ways to Assist

It’s a tough moment when someone you care about reveals they’re grappling with suicidal thoughts. Your concern is natural, and you may feel lost about how to assist. But the first step is crucial – don’t stop talking about it. Engaging in open and supportive conversations can be a lifeline for your friend. Let’s explore seven ways you can provide the vital support they need.

1. Recognize the Warning Signs

Identifying red flags is vital in determining when your friend requires help. Some key indicators of high suicide risk include:

• Saying goodbyes to friends or loved ones.
• Giving away possessions.
• Expressing a focus on death and dying.
• Making statements about being a burden or contemplating one’s own demise.
• Engaging in more frequent or severe self-injury.
• Expressing suicidal thoughts on social media or in conversations.

Additional warning signs may include sudden shifts in mood, expressions of hopelessness, irritability, unexplained physical ailments, increased substance use, neglect of personal appearance, social withdrawal, and a decline in participation in once-enjoyed activities.

2. Be a Safe Person to Talk To

Suicidal thoughts often create isolation, making it crucial for your friend to know that someone cares and is willing to listen. When conversing with them:

• Be present and spend time together, allowing them to share their feelings.
• Validate their emotions by actively listening and expressing understanding.
• Avoid minimizing their feelings; refrain from dismissive statements that may invalidate their experiences.
• Be direct in discussing suicide, as open dialogue is key to identifying warning signs and connecting your friend to appropriate help.
• Regularly check on them to let them know you care, reducing their sense of burden.

3. Validate Their Feelings

Listening actively and empathizing with your friend’s emotions is powerful. Repeat back what they share, acknowledging their struggles. Simple statements like “you’ve felt lonely lately” can make them feel heard and understood.

4. Don’t Minimize

Avoid dismissing their emotions with phrases like “it’s not that bad” or “you’re being dramatic.” Minimizing feelings can worsen the situation. Instead, acknowledge their pain and show genuine concern.

5. Be Direct

While discussing suicide might seem uncomfortable, being direct is crucial. Asking if they’re suicidal doesn’t increase the risk; it helps identify warning signs. Open dialogue is essential to connecting your friend with the help they need.

Supporting a friend with suicidal thoughts can be emotionally draining. Ensure you take care of your well-being:

• Destress after conversations through activities like shaking out each body part or taking a walk.
• Engage in activities you enjoy to re-energize, such as listening to music, spending time with friends, or playing sports.

6. Check on Them

Consistent support is vital. If your friend is struggling, check on them regularly. Knowing someone cares can alleviate their burden and make a significant difference in their journey.

7. Encourage Them to Get Help

While your support is valuable, you must recognize that you alone cannot fix the situation. Encourage your friend to speak with a trained healthcare professional, such as a counsellor, crisis line, or a trusted adult.

Fight Stigma Around Suicide

Contributing to the end of stigma is a collective effort. Share knowledge about warning signs, be mindful of your language, and raise awareness about suicide prevention in your community.

Ending the stigma around suicide is a collective effort. You can contribute by:

• Sharing knowledge about warning signs.
• Being mindful of language, avoiding jokes about suicide or judgment towards those struggling.
• Raising awareness about suicide prevention and resources in your school or workplace.

Conclusion

Addressing a friend’s suicidal thoughts requires a delicate balance of empathy, understanding, and proactive support. By recognizing warning signs, being a safe person to talk to, encouraging professional help, taking swift action when needed, prioritizing self-care, and combating stigma, you create a supportive environment that can make a significant difference. Remember, your role is vital, but professional assistance is equally crucial in helping your friend through this challenging time.

FAQs

1. How do I know if my friend is truly suicidal?
   • Recognize warning signs such as changes in behaviour, social media posts, and direct statements about dying.
2. Does talking about suicide make it worse?
   • No, talking directly about suicide is essential to identify warning signs and connect your friend with help.
3. What if my friend doesn’t want professional help?
   • Encourage them gently, but if the risk is high, involve a trusted adult for their safety.
4. How often should I check on my friend?
   • Regular check-ins, especially if you know they’re struggling, can provide ongoing support. Trust your instincts.
5. How can I contribute to ending the stigma around suicide?
   • Share information about warning signs, be mindful of your language, and actively promote suicide prevention resources in your community.