When a suicide-related crisis occurs, friends and family are often caught off-guard, unprepared and unsure of what to do. The behaviors of a person experiencing a crisis can be unpredictable, changing dramatically without warning.

A few ways to approach a suicide-crisis:

• Talk openly and honestly. Don’t be afraid to ask questions like: “Do you have a plan for how you would kill yourself?”

• Remove means such as guns, knives or stockpiled pills

• Calmly ask simple and direct questions, like “Can I help you call your psychiatrist?”

• Express support and concern.

• If you’re nervous, try not to fidget or pace.

• Don’t argue, threaten or raise your voice.

• Don’t debate whether suicide is right or wrong.

• Don’t say “We all go through tough times like these. You’ll be fine” or “It all in your hear.”

• Don’t promise secrecy. Say instead: “I care about you too much to keep this kind of secret. You need help and I’m here to help you get it.” 

If you are unsure, a licensed mental health professional can help assess. Mental health professionals are trained to help people understand their feelings and improve mental wellness and resiliency. Like any other health emergency, it’s important to address a mental health crisis like suicide quickly and effectively.

Treatment