How to Find Out if Someone is Suicidal

Talking directly about suicide will never cause someone to do it.  The most important thing you can do for a friend you’re worried about is to ask them whether they’re feeling suicidal or not.

To do this most effectively you need to:

• Talk privately
• Allow plenty of time
• Stay calm
• Allow them to talk freely without judging or minimizing them
• Be persistent
• Don’t be sworn to secrecy — friends don’t keep deadly secrets!
• If you think someone might be suicidal, check out the “What to Say and Do” page or call CrisisLink 703-527-4077 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Help is available 24/7/365!