Tips for Discussing Suicide with a Friend

How to Talk to Someone You’re Worried About

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. We've been talking on our socials about resources, signs, and so much more. Today we wanted to address something that can be super uncomfortable: open, caring conversations (pun intended) can literally save lives. One of the most powerful things you can do is check in on someone you’re worried about. Still, starting that conversation can feel intimidating—you might wonder, What if I say the wrong thing? What if they get upset and actually die by suicide?

Here are some tips to help guide you:

1. Choose the Right Time and Place

Find a quiet, private moment where you won’t be interrupted. Your full presence shows that you care and that the other person matters.

2. Be Direct, Yet Compassionate

It’s okay to ask directly:

“I’ve noticed you’ve seemed really down lately—are you thinking about suicide?”

Asking does not put the idea in someone’s head. Instead, it shows them they are safe to be honest with you.

3. Listen Without Judgment

Sometimes, people don’t need advice right away—they just need to be heard. Try using phrases like:

“I’m so glad you told me.”

“That sounds really hard.”

"Thank you for sharing this with me."

Your role is not to “fix” their pain but to listen and support.

4. Avoid Minimizing or Offering Quick Fixes

Comments like “You’ll get over it” or “Just think positive” can feel dismissive. Instead, validate their feelings and remind them they don’t have to go through this alone.

5. Encourage Professional Support

Suggest reaching out to a therapist, doctor, counselor, or psychiatrist. You can offer to help them look up resources or sit with them while they make a call.

To find a therapist, try asking friends or family for recommendations, try a website like PsychologyToday, or ask your PCP; they frequently have recommendations. You can also use google, but this can be overwhelming!

6. Know the Resources

Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) if someone is in distress. Take threats of suicide seriously. There are trained professionals available 24/7 who know the questions to ask and when to seek additional help.

Note: If someone is in immediate danger of harming themselves, call 911.

Share local mental health resources if available; in Westmoreland county, where our office is located, the local crisis number is 1.800.836.6010. If you are not local to Westmoreland, PA, try googling "crisis

Hotline [your area]. Likely, 988 would be able to connect you to resources too.

7. Follow Up

Checking in later shows that your concern wasn’t a one-time gesture. Even a simple text—“Thinking of you today”, bringing them a coffee, a hug—can mean so much.

Talking about suicide is not easy. But by reaching out with compassion, honesty, and patience, you can be a lifeline for someone in pain.

If you or someone you love is struggling, please know: you are not alone, and help is available.