When Someone Talks Suicide

If you are worried that someone is suicidal--ask them. It will not encourage them to do so if they are not. If they say they have a plan and a concrete way to carry it out, that is a signal that it is more serious. If they say they think they would do it, that is another signal. If they have recently suffered a great loss, if they are feeling hopeless about things, those are other indications. You can call someone's physician, call the family. You can listen. Just listen, and let them know they are not alone. If you think it is imminent, and irreversible, you can call the police. You can also ask them to call the crisis line. You can ask them to promise you not to do it. Just don't shy away from it because you are afraid to ask.