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Talking about suicidal feelings is hard, but shaming or dismissing someone’s pain can push them further into isolation. Suicide is not selfish—it’s the result of overwhelming pain. When a loved one opens up, the best thing you can do is listen without judgment.
Instead of: “Think of your family,”
Try: “I can’t imagine how hard this must be for you, but I’m here.”
Instead of: “Distract yourself,”
Try: “It’s okay to feel what you’re feeling. Let’s talk about it. Share this pain with me a little”
Some other things you can tell them:
- “I’m so sorry you’re feeling this way. I’m here to listen, no matter what.”
- “It sounds really tough right now. I care about you. What do you need?”
- “You don’t have to face this alone. We’ll get through this together.”
- “It’s okay to talk about your pain. I’m not going anywhere.”
⚠️ Recognize the Difference:
Suicidal Ideation: Thinking about death or suicide but not having a plan.
Suicidal Action: Developing a plan or actively trying to end one’s life.
Both are serious, but open conversations about ideation can prevent the risk of action. Instead of being afraid to talk about it, know that asking someone about suicide doesn’t put the idea in their head—it shows you’re someone they can trust.
⚠️ 🚨 Warning Signs to Watch For (can sometimes be very subtle):
- Withdrawal from loved ones
- Talking about being a burden
- Sudden calm/happiness after intense sadness as if everything is okay and nothing matters anymore
- Giving away possessions or sending loved ones messages expressing gratitude or solving past conflicts out of the blue
If you notice these signs, don’t hesitate. Be there. Listen. Let them know they’re not alone. Talking saves lives. 🌱
PS: some suicide helplines by SPIF’s Mental Health Directory.
You’re not alone. Your voice should be heard. And not just on Suicide Awareness Day.
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Some other things you can tell them:
- “I’m so sorry you’re feeling this way. I’m here to listen, no matter what.”
- “It sounds really tough right now. I care about you. What do you need?”
- “You don’t have to face this alone. We’ll get through this together.”
- “It’s okay to talk about your pain. I’m not going anywhere.”
⚠️ Recognize the Difference:
Suicidal Ideation: Thinking about death or suicide but not having a plan.
Suicidal Action: Developing a plan or actively trying to end one’s life.
Both are serious, but open conversations about ideation can prevent the risk of action. Instead of being afraid to talk about it, know that asking someone about suicide doesn’t put the idea in their head—it shows you’re someone they can trust.
⚠️ 🚨 Warning Signs to Watch For (can sometimes be very subtle):
- Withdrawal from loved ones
- Talking about being a burden
- Sudden calm/happiness after intense sadness as if everything is okay and nothing matters anymore
- Giving away possessions or sending loved ones messages expressing gratitude or solving past conflicts out of the blue
If you notice these signs, don’t hesitate. Be there. Listen. Let them know they’re not alone. Talking saves lives. 🌱
PS: some suicide helplines by SPIF’s Mental Health Directory.
You’re not alone. Your voice should be heard. And not just on Suicide Awareness Day.