❓Did You Know....About Suicide?

What Everyone Should Know About Suicide

Suicide can be difficult and frightening to talk about—but silence does not protect people. Compassionate, honest conversations can help someone feel seen, supported, and less alone.

Suicidal Thoughts Can Affect Anyone

A person can appear successful, social, or “fine” while experiencing overwhelming emotional pain. Suicidal thoughts are not a sign of weakness or selfishness. They often arise when someone feels hopeless, trapped, burdensome, or unable to imagine another way through their pain.

Take Warning Signs Seriously

Possible warning signs may include:

• Talking about wanting to die or feeling like a burden

• Expressing hopelessness, shame, or unbearable pain

• Withdrawing from friends and family

• Giving away meaningful possessions or saying goodbye

• Taking unusual or dangerous risks

• Experiencing dramatic mood, sleep, or behavior changes

• Increasing alcohol or drug use

• Making plans or researching ways to die

Warning signs may be especially concerning when they are new, increasing, or connected to a painful loss or major life change.

Asking About Suicide Does Not Cause It

If you are concerned about someone, it is okay to ask directly:

“Are you thinking about suicide?”

Research indicates that asking this question does not increase suicidal thoughts or behavior. It can open the door to an honest conversation and let the person know they do not have to carry their pain alone.

Listen Without Judgment

You do not need to have the perfect words. Stay calm, listen, and take the person seriously. Avoid lecturing, debating, minimizing their feelings, or offering quick reassurance such as, “Everything will be fine.”

Instead, try saying:

• “I’m glad you told me.”

• “You don’t have to face this alone.”

• “I’m here with you.”

• “Let’s find support together.”

  
  

Do Not Promise to Keep It Secret

If someone tells you they are considering suicide, involve additional support—even if they ask you not to tell anyone.

Help them connect with a mental health professional, trusted person, or crisis counselor. If possible, reduce access to anything they might use to harm themselves and continue checking in afterward.

Help Is Available

In the United States, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. You may contact 988 for yourself or because you are worried about someone else.

If there is an immediate, life-threatening emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Suicide prevention belongs to all of us. We may not always recognize another person’s pain, but we can listen, ask, stay present, and help them connect with support. One caring conversation can make a meaningful difference.

Sources: National Institute of Mental Health and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. This article is educational and is not a substitute for professional or emergency care.

If you or anyone you know needs help from a trained professional, please reach out to one of our amazing therapists, https://www.pacificmft.com/therapist-info/meet-our-team

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