Suicide is a sensitive topic that can be really difficult to talk about. Personally, I know some people in my life who have been in very dark periods of their ives, and it really hurts to see that how hard they're trying to hide their depression. Here are my tips on how to deal with a friend who has suicidal thoughts:
- Ask questions to allow them to talk about their feelings
The questions may be very sensitive and should be direct. This includes:
Are you thinking about suicide?
Do you have access to weapons?
How have you been coping with what's been happening in your life?
- Identify signs of suicidal behaviour
It's usually difficult to know if someone is contemplating suicide, but common signs include talking about suicide, buying guns or pills, or increased use of alcohol and drugs.
- Comfort them and let them know that you’re there for them no matter what
- Offer support and seek immediate help from a professional
Encourage him/her to call a suicidal prevention hotline
Useful Articles:
Sources:
Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2018, January 31). Suicide: What to do when someone is suicidal. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/suicide/in-depth/suicide/art-20044707.
mental-health. The Mighty. (n.d.). https://themighty.com/topic/mental-health/.