Suicide Prevention: How to Help Someone Who is Thinking About Suicide

Written By Jacqueline Mitchell

When Maya’s best friend, Jordan, stopped answering texts, skipped class, and no longer wanted to go to school sporting events, she figured it was just life getting busy. But then Jordan began posting late-night messages about “feeling done” and “wanting the pain to stop.”

Maya felt a wave of worry but knew she had to say something. She sent a simple message:

“Hey, I saw your post. I haven’t seen you in a while. Is everything okay? I’m here if you want to talk.”

There was a long pause before Jordan finally replied:

“Yeah… I’ve been going through a lot.”

That small exchange opened the door to a bigger conversation. Maya stayed on the phone with Jordan that night, encouraged them to reach out for help, and kept checking in over the next few weeks. They even started spending time together again.

Later, Jordan told Maya that moment made them feel seen — and kept them alive.

This is why suicide prevention matters. You don’t have to be a mental health professional to make a difference. You just have to notice, ask, and stay connected.

Suicide prevention

Why Suicide Prevention Is Everyone’s Business

Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the United States, and in 2022, more than 49,000 lives were lost to suicide, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). That’s one person every 11 minutes. Millions more experience serious thoughts of suicide each year (CDC, 2023).

Tragically, many never tell anyone — not because they don’t want help, but because they fear being judged, dismissed, or misunderstood. This is why it’s so important to “crack the door” and talk openly about mental health and suicidal thoughts. Sometimes a single conversation can save a life.

Warning Signs Someone May Be Thinking About Suicide

Knowing the warning signs is the first step in suicide prevention. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) highlights common signs to watch for, including:

  • Talking about death, suicide, or feeling hopeless

  • Saying they are a burden to others

  • Withdrawing from friends, family, and activities

  • Major mood swings — deep sadness, anger, or sudden calmness

  • Neglecting hygiene or basic self-care

  • Giving away personal belongings or saying goodbye

  • Increased use of alcohol or drugs

If something feels off, trust your instincts. Even a small gesture — a text, a check-in, a listening ear — can make someone feel seen and valued. You never know when your compassion might save a life.

How to Support Someone Who Tells You They Are Thinking About Suicide

Hearing someone say they want to die can feel scary, unexpected, or even shocking. But how you respond can truly make a life-saving difference. Here’s what to do:

1. Stay Calm and Actively Listen

Take a deep breath and focus on being present. Give them space to talk — sometimes, silence can be incredibly powerful in a vulnerable moment.

  • Avoid reacting with shock or saying things like, “I had no idea!” which can make the person feel ashamed or misunderstood.

  • Instead, offer reassurance: “Thank you for telling me. I’m here with you.”

  • Let them share what they’re feeling, even if it’s hard to hear. Your calm presence can help them feel safer and less alone.

2. Take Them Seriously

Never dismiss what someone is feeling by assuming they are “just being dramatic” or “looking for attention.” Their pain is real, and they need to feel heard.

  • Express genuine concern and remind them that their life has value.

  • Research from the National Institute of Mental Health shows that asking about suicide does not increase the risk — it opens the door to support and safety.

  • You can ask directly: “Are you thinking about suicide?” or “Are you thinking about hurting yourself?”

3. Help Them Stay Safe

If the person has a plan or access to means of harming themselves, take steps to reduce immediate risk:

  • Stay with them or ensure they are not alone until they are safe.

  • If possible, remove dangerous items such as weapons, medications, or sharp objects.

  • Encourage them to connect with a crisis counselor, call 988, or go to the nearest emergency room if they are in immediate danger.

4. Connect Them to Professional Help

You are not expected to solve everything — but you can be the bridge to help.

  • In the U.S., call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

  • Text HOME to 741741 to connect with the Crisis Text Line and receive immediate support from trained counselors.

  • Offer to sit with them while they make the call, or help them look up a local therapist, counselor, or support group.

5. Follow Up

Support doesn’t end after the crisis moment — staying connected can make a powerful difference in someone’s recovery.

  • Send a message the next day: “Thinking of you today. How are you holding up?”

  • Invite them to do something low-pressure, like taking a walk or grabbing coffee.

  • Keep showing up — even small check-ins can remind them that they are not alone and that they matter.

support others

Suicide Prevention Resources

If you or someone you love is in crisis, here are trusted resources that can help right now:

📞 Support

  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 (U.S.)

  • Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741

  • Veterans Crisis Line – Dial 988 and press 1

  • Teen Line – Call 310-855-4673 or text TEEN to 839863

  • 988 Lifeline for Youth – Call or text 988 and ask to connect with youth-specific resources

Data & Resources Used

This blog was created using evidence-based data and best practices from trusted mental health organizations:

Jacqueline Mitchell
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