The latest suicides statistics showed that in 2018, in the UK and Republic of Ireland, more than 6,800 people died by suicide. Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy.
And we know that suicide is preventable, it’s not inevitable.
But not being OK is still widely stigmatised. And governments can still make better, more ambitious plans to prevent suicide.
If you’re worried someone might be suicidal, asking directly can not only give us the clarification but also what action to take next.
How to start a conversation with someone
Just being there to listen and showing you care can help. Here are some tips on how to open up a conversation with someone you’re worried about:
- Choose a good time, and somewhere without distractions
- Use open questions that need more than a yes/no answer
- ‘How are things, I’ve noticed you don’t seem quite yourself?’
- Listen well. ‘How’s that making you feel?’
- Avoid giving your view of what’s wrong, or what they should do
It’s normal to feel anxious about asking someone if they’re suicidal, but it could save someone’s life. Try and avoid saying things like ‘you’re not thinking of doing something stupid are you?’. Being patient and showing you care builds trust and helps someone to open up.
You could ask:
- Have you thought about ending your life?
- Are you saying that you want to die?
- Are you thinking of ending your life because you want to be dead, or is it because you want the situation you’re in or the way you feel to stop?
Find out more about supporting someone you’re worried about
Why not complete the FREE e- learning module?
Zero Suicide Allilance offer a 20 minute suicide awareness e learning modudle where you will gain skills and confidence to help someone who may be considering suicide.
What you’ll learn
- How to spot suicide warning signs
- How to have a conversation with someone you’re worried about
- Where to signpost to for further support
- Suicide is preventable
To access follow: 20 minute suicide awareness training (zerosuicidealliance.com)
