September is Suicide Prevention Month. We recognize this can be a difficult topic to talk about, but it is an important one. This article will review common warning signs of suicide and provide guidance for talking with a loved one who may be struggling.
Warning Signs
While warning signs can vary from person to person, some common indicators of suicidal thoughts include:
- Withdrawal from friends and family
- Noticeable mood or behavior changes
- Expressions of hopelessness or feeling like a burden
- Increased anxiety, agitation, or irritability
- Changes in sleep, appetite, or overall functioning
- Talking about death, wanting to disappear, or “not being here anymore”
It is important to remember that one sign alone does not necessarily indicate a crisis. However, patterns or clusters of changes may be worth paying attention to. When in doubt, it is okay to ask.
How to Talk About Suicide With a Loved One
Research consistently shows that asking about suicide does not increase risk. In fact, many individuals report feeling relief when someone they trust is willing to ask directly and listen without judgment.
If you are concerned that someone may be experiencing suicidal thoughts, a first step is to ask directly. For example: “Are you having thoughts of suicide?”
When having this conversation, the goal is connection, not perfection. A few helpful guidelines can support the interaction:
- Focus on connection. You do not need to say all the “right” things. Simply being present, listening, and showing genuine care is often the most important support you can offer.
- Be direct, calm, and non-judgmental. Speak clearly and avoid reacting with shock, fear, or judgment. This can make your loved one less likely to open up.
- Listen more than you solve. There will be time later to explore solutions and professional support. Start the conversation by listening before jumping to resources or solutions.
- Avoid minimizing or debating their experience. Even if you do not fully understand their experiences, take their feelings seriously.
- Express care and willingness to stay present. Let them know they are not alone in the conversation and you are willing to stay with them as long as they need.
- Encourage professional support when appropriate. After listening, ask if you can tell them about different support options. Support may include telling another trusted adult, therapy, school counseling, or crisis services.
Resources
If you or someone you know is in immediate distress, help is available:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988)
- Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741)
- School counselors or local mental health providers
For additional training, consider QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer), a widely used suicide prevention gatekeeper program that teaches practical skills for responding to someone in crisis (https://qprinstitute.com/).
