Intervention
What to do if a friend or loved one is suicidal:
• Let that person know you are concerned about their well-being, and that you have observed certain clues that have made you think that they may want to hurt themselves. Ask them if they are depressed or suicidal.
• Listen to your friend, and keep in mind that you must stay calm. Your friend will more than likely be relived that someone noticed their pain, and cared enough to confront them and talk about it.
• Support your friend unconditionally. While you cannot make someone choose to live, and while you aren’t responsible for their life, you can support them and show them that you care while giving them ideas about other choices.
• Remind this friend that suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem.
• Be honest with your friend and they will trust your input. Let them know you want to help them, even if it involves calling an adult or a hotline. Call them in front of your friend if necessary.
• Call 9-1-1 if you feel their suicide threat is immediate.
