Your Guide to Supporting a Suicidal Friend

If you or a friend are experiencing suicidal thoughts or are in danger of harming yourself, this is a mental health emergency. Contact The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 24/7 by calling or texting 988.

Supporting a friend who is experiencing suicidal thoughts can be one of the most challenging and emotional situations you may face. It requires a careful balance of empathy, patience, and practical support. Understanding how to navigate this delicate situation can significantly impact their well-being and may even save their life. 

This guide will walk you through the essential steps, including recognizing warning signs, initiating crucial conversations, and providing practical support while taking care of your mental health. By approaching this role with compassion and informed strategies, you can offer meaningful help to your friend during their crisis.

4 tips to help a suicidal friend

Supporting a friend who is suicidal is crucial because it can make a significant difference in their well-being and potentially save their life. When you offer emotional support, you give them hope and connection during deep despair. Simply being there to listen, without judgment, shows that they are not alone and that someone cares about them. Your support can help them feel valued and understood, which might encourage them to seek professional help. It’s also important to take any talk of suicide seriously and to enable them to reach out to mental health professionals for the help they need. Your involvement can be a vital part of their recovery journey.

1. Recognize the warning signs

Recognizing the warning signs of suicidal thoughts is crucial for offering timely support. Here are some key signs to look out for:

• Verbal cues like talking about feeling hopeless, trapped, or wanting to die
• Behavioral changes such as withdrawal from social activities, sudden mood swings, or increased substance use
• Feelings of extreme sadness, anxiety, or irritability
• An increased focus on death or dying
• Any self-destructive behavior, such as cutting or burning

2. Start a conversation 

Starting a conversation with someone you suspect is suicidal can be challenging, as it requires sensitivity and courage. Begin by choosing a quiet and private setting where the person feels comfortable. Approach the topic gently but directly; for instance, you might say, “I’ve noticed you seem down lately, and I’m concerned about you. Are you okay?” It’s important to express your concern without being confrontational or judgmental. Acknowledge that discussing such feelings can be difficult and that you’re there to listen without pressure. Let them know you care and will support them through this tough time. Your empathy and willingness to engage in an open, non-judgmental conversation can make it easier for them to share their feelings and seek help.

3. Know immediate steps to take in a crisis

If someone is in immediate crisis and at risk of suicide, taking quick and effective action is crucial. Here are the steps to take:

• Stay calm by providing stability and reassurance, which can comfort someone feeling overwhelmed 
• Ensure that someone is safe by removing any potential means they might use to harm themselves
• Seek professional help from people trained to handle such crises, such as The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988) or a local mobile crisis team
• Avoid judgment and instead offer supportive comments
• Follow up after an immediate crisis and continue to offer support like helping the person connect with a mental health professional or make necessary follow-up appointments 

4. Find professional help and resources

Navigating the path to professional help and accessing suicide prevention resources can be crucial in managing a mental health crisis. To find the right professional help, first determine whether the situation is an emergency or requires ongoing support. For immediate threats, call emergency services or crisis hotlines. For ongoing issues, research professionals with qualifications and experience in mental health and suicide prevention. Check their licenses and any special training they have in crisis intervention. Additionally, consult referrals from trusted sources and evaluate the fit with potential professionals. Consider accessibility, as many now offer virtual sessions for convenience.

Suicide prevention resources

You don’t have to support a suicidal friend — here are some suicide prevention resources to keep in mind: 

• Crisis hotlines, like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988), offer 24/7 support, including confidential help and resources for urgent situations
• Emergency services like 911
• Online resources that provide help through chatlines and text services, like the Crisis Text Line (Text HOME to 741741)
• Local support groups in your community that focus on mental health and suicide prevention
• Mental health organizations, such as the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) and Mental Health America (MHA), provide resources and information on connecting with mental health professionals
• Community health centers might offer mental health services on a sliding scale or for free

6 self-care tips for supporters of suicidal friends

Supporting someone in crisis can take a significant emotional toll. The constant worry, stress, and emotional investment can lead to burnout, compassion fatigue, and even secondary trauma. If you don’t take care of your mental health, you may find yourself feeling overwhelmed and less able to provide adequate support. Self-care helps you manage stress, maintain your emotional balance, and remain supportive without compromising your well-being. Effective self-care strategies for mental health supporters include:

1. Set boundaries

Establish clear boundaries to protect your own time and energy. It’s important to balance being available for your friend with time for yourself. Let them know when you need a break, and stick to it.

2. Seek support

Don’t hesitate to seek support for yourself. Talking to a therapist or counselor can help you process your feelings and gain perspective. Joining support groups for people who support those in crisis can also be beneficial.

3. Practice stress management

Engage in activities that help manage stress, such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies. Regular physical activity and relaxation techniques can improve your mood and reduce stress.

4. Stay connected

Maintain connections with friends, family, and other support networks. Social support is essential for your emotional well-being and can provide a break from your caregiving role.

5. Educate yourself

Learn more about mental health and crisis management. Understanding what your friend is going through can help you offer better support and prepare you to manage your stress.

6. Practice self-compassion

Be kind to yourself and recognize that supporting someone in crisis is challenging. Allow yourself to have emotions and seek help when needed.

How Charlie Health can help with suicidal thoughts

If you or a loved one are struggling with your mental health, including suicidal feelings or suicidal thoughts, Charlie Health is here to help. Charlie Health’s virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) provides more than once-weekly mental health treatment for dealing with serious mental health conditions. Our expert clinicians incorporate evidence-based therapies into individual counseling, family therapy, and group sessions. With professional support, managing your mental health is possible. Fill out the form below or give us a call to start healing today.