How to Help a Friend

• Don’t try to manage the situation alone.
• Be direct – talk openly and matter-of0factlt about suicide; what you have observed, and what your concerns are regarding your friends well-being.
• Be willing to listen – allow expressions of feelings, accept the feelings, and be patient
• Be non-judgmental – don’t debate whether suicide is right or wrong or whether the person’s feelings are good or bad; don’t give a lecture on the values of life
• Be available – show interest, understanding, and support
• Don’t dare him/her to do it
• Don’t act shocked
• Don’t ask why
• Don’t be sworn to secrecy
• Offer hope that alternatives are available – but don’t offer reassurance that any one alternative will turn things around
• Take action – remove lethal means of self-harm such as pills ropes, and alcohol or other drugs
• Get help from others with more experience and expertise
• Be actively involved in encouraging the person to see a mental health professional