Caring for Someone with Suicidal Ideation

September is National Suicide Prevention Month. If you suspect someone may be considering suicide, watch for signs such as: substance abuse, frequent discussions about death, feelings of hopelessness or helplessness, loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, impulsive or destructive behavior, changes in sleeping and eating habits, excessive shame or guilt, intense emotional swings, withdrawal from daily routines, unexplained disappearances, or changes in communication patterns (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 2023).

As a parent, guardian, peer, family member, sibling or caregiver, you can play a crucial role in improving protective factors (Centers for Disease Control, 2024) and reducing the risk of suicidal behavior.

Steps you can take

1. Recognize warning signs – Be vigilant about the signs and symptoms of suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Early identification can lead to timely intervention.
2. Offer praise and encouragement – Acknowledge their efforts and resilience, whether in school, work, or other life challenges. Your support can help build their self-esteem.
3. Listen without judgment – Provide a compassionate ear and avoid pushing them to talk or being confrontational. Let them share their feelings at their own pace.
4. Avoid taking it personally – Understand that their suicidal thoughts are a reflection of their distress, not a judgment on your caregiving.
5. Encourage self-care – Promote healthy self-care habits and stress management. Encourage them to take care of themselves physically and emotionally.
6. Revisit positive memories – Help them reconnect with happy memories through photos, home videos, or shared stories to uplift their spirits.
7. Encourage expression – Suggest journaling or drawing as a means to express and process their emotions.
8. Highlight past successes – Remind them of times they’ve successfully overcome challenges or solved problems, to bolster their confidence.
9. Surround them with positivity – Create an environment filled with positive influences, supportive words, and uplifting people.
10. Utilize the 988 Lifeline – Encourage them to reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988, or using the online chat at 988lifeline.org/chat for immediate, confidential support from trained counselors.
11. Take a Mental Health First Aid course – Consider taking a Mental Health First Aid course to better understand how to support those in need (National Council for Mental Well-Being, 2024).

By taking these steps, you can offer meaningful support and help foster a safer, more hopeful environment for someone in crisis.

More about 988

Using the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (SAMHSA, 2023) is straightforward and designed to provide you or a loved one immediate support. Here’s how:

• Calling 988
  1. Dial 988 – On your phone, dial 988 and press call.
  2. Speak to a counselor – You’ll be connected to a trained crisis counselor who can listen to you, provide emotional support, and help you navigate through the crisis.
  3. Share information – You can discuss whatever you or someone you love is going through—there’s no need to worry about judgment. Counselors are there to offer understanding and support.
• Texting 988
  1. Text 988 – Open your messaging app and send a text to 988.
  2. Describe your situation – Once you’re connected, you can describe your situation or feelings via text.
  3. Get support – A counselor will respond to your messages, providing support and resources.
• Online Chat
  1. Visit the Lifeline’s Website – Go to https://988lifeline.org/chat to access the chat service.
  2. Start a chat – Follow the prompts to begin a chat with a trained counselor.
  3. Discuss your needs – You can chat about what you or a loved one is experiencing, and the counselor will provide guidance and support.

When to use 988

• Crisis situations – Reach out if you or someone you care about is in the midst of a severe emotional crisis.
• Suicidal thoughts – Contact 988 if you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or self-harm urges.
• Emotional distress – Use this service if you’re feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or simply need someone to talk to.

Remember

• Confidentiality – All conversations are kept private to protect your confidentiality.
• Free service – This service is available at no cost, no matter your situation.
• No judgment – Counselors are trained to provide support without judgment and to assist you in finding the resources you need.
• Designed for different needs – If you have special requirements like being a veteran or need services in Spanish, you can inform the dispatcher about these needs directly or dial an appropriate option.

Additional Resources

• Suicide and Suicidal Behavior
• 988 – Frequently Asked Questions
• Find Help
• Contact for Mental Health Education