Despite common fears that discussing suicide may "give the person the idea," there is no evidence supporting this concern. In reality, talking openly about suicide can have the opposite effect and provide relief for many individuals. Creating a safe space for open dialogue is crucial.
Anyone who talks or writes about taking their own life should be taken seriously. Never assume that a person who has spoken about suicidal thoughts before and not acted on those thoughts won’t do so this time.
Not everyone who thinks about suicide will tell someone and there are some people who give no indication of their intention. However, there are warning signs that we can all look out for. These include, if a person is:
- Talking or writing about death, dying or suicide.
- Actively looking for ways to kill themselves.
- Talking about feeling hopeless or of having no reason to live.
- Talking about being a burden to others.
- Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain.
- Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.
- Suddenly very much ‘recovered’ after a period of depression.
- Visiting or calling people unexpectedly to say goodbye either directly or indirectly.
- Making arrangements; setting their affairs in order.
- Giving things away, such as prized possession
Ask
Try to ask open questions where possible to allow conversation to flow. Reflect back answers and use the terminology that the other person is using.
How have you been feeling lately?
Can you tell me more about what's been going on in your life recently?
What's on your mind these days?
I've noticed some changes in your behaviour. Can you share more about what might be behind those changes?
Is there something specific that's been bothering you that you'd like to discuss?
Is there any support you feel you need right now?
Assist
- Reflect what has been said to you; “you said you have not been getting out much, tell me a bit more about that?
- Directly ask - Have you had any suicidal thoughts/thoughts about taking your own life?
Act
If you’re worried that someone is at immediate risk of taking their own life then phone 999, you should stay with that person until help arrives. Do not put your own safety at risk by getting physically involved If no immediate risk take the following steps:
- give reassurances that there are lots of sources of support and that what they are feeling is common.
- contact their GP for an emergency appointment or call the out of hours service.
- call their Mental Health worker, if they have one.
- call their social worker or key worker, if they have one
- encourage to re-engage with mental health services if already engaged
- ask them if they have a Safety Plan in place