Spotting the Signs & Stepping In: How to Help Someone Who May Be Suicidal
⚠️ Trigger Warning
This post discusses suicide, suicidal thoughts, and self-harm. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please call or text 988 in the United States to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If you are outside the U.S., please look up your local crisis line right now. You are not alone, and help is available.
Last week, we looked at how and why someone can become suicidal. This week, we’ll delve into why early recognition matters, signs to watch for, and how to have a conversation with someone you think may be suicidal. The goal with this series on suicide is to help save lives!
Why Early Recognition Matters
Suicide is often preventable. Most people who consider suicide exhibit signs before they act. Some of these signs are subtle while others are more obvious. Recognizing those signs and responding quickly can save a life. Asking the right questions, staying present, and connecting with someone who can help may be the most important thing you ever do.
Warning Signs to Watch For
While no single sign guarantees that someone is suicidal, here are some signs and behaviors that indicate strong red flags:
Talking about wanting to die or saying something like, “I can’t go on.”
Searching for ways to end their life (online or in conversation).
Expressing hopelessness (“Nothing will ever get better”).
Withdrawal from friends, family, or activities they once enjoyed.
Changes in sleep or appetite (too much or too little).
Increased use of drugs or alcohol.
Giving away possessions or tying up loose ends.
Sudden mood shifts — especially from deep sadness to a sudden calm, which can indicate a decision to act. [1]
What You Can Do Immediately
If you suspect someone may be suicidal, here are the most effective steps to take:
Ask directly. Use clear words like: “Are you thinking about killing yourself?” Research shows asking this does not increase risk — it reduces it. [2]
Listen without judgment. Avoid saying “You shouldn’t feel that way” or “You should just snap out of it.” That last comment was said to me. Trust me, it’s not that simple or easy to snap out of depression. Instead, validate: “That sounds really painful. I’m glad you told me.”
Stay present. Don’t leave them alone if they are in immediate danger.
Remove access to lethal means. If safe to do so, help limit access to firearms, medications, or sharp objects. This single step has been shown to save lives. [3]
Get professional help. Call or text 988 in the U.S. or your local crisis line. If danger is imminent, call emergency services. They can assess the situation and issue a 5150, which is a 72-hour hold in a hospital.
How to Have the Conversation
Approaching someone about suicide can feel intimidating. In fact, it is quite normal to think you may say the wrong thing and push them closer to suicide. Here are some guidelines you can use to have that conversation:
Be direct, calm, and compassionate. Consider asking, “I’ve noticed you seem really down lately, and I’m worried about you.”
Ask open-ended questions like “Can you tell me more about what you’re feeling?”
Avoid minimizing their feelings. Don’t say “It’s not that bad” or “Others have it worse.”
Offer hope. Let them know help is available and you’ll support them in finding it. [4]
Follow-Up & Safety Planning
Helping someone once is important, but ongoing support matters too. Encourage them to:
Create a safety plan which is a written list of coping steps, safe contacts, and emergency numbers). [5]
Schedule a professional appointment and offer to go with them.
Stay connected by checking in regularly with a simple text or call.
I’ll be giving you a downloadable Safety Plan PDF after Part 3 of this series, so you can share it as a tool with your readers or clients.
When we notice the signs and step in, we give someone the gift of time, hope, and connection. Your presence and courage to ask questions could save a life.
In next week’s post on this series, we’ll explore what happens after a suicide attempt, how to support those who survive their attempt, as well as those grieving a loss by suicide.
If you or someone you love is at risk:
In the U.S., call or text 988 immediately.
If outside the U.S., find your local hotline number now.
✅ Sources:
[1] American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, https://afsp.org/risk-factors-protective-factors-and-warning-signs/, website visited on 9.21.25
[2] National Institute on Mental Health, https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/suicide-prevention, website visited 9.21.25
[3] Centers for Disease Control Suicide Prevention, https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/risk-factors/, website visited on 9.21.25
[4] Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/suicidal-behavior/prevention, website visited on 9.28.25
[5] Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/suicidal-behavior/prevention, website visited on 9.28.25
Until next time,
Coach Deborah Griffiths
Website: www.brokentoboldness.com
Email: deborah@brokentoboldness.com
P.S.: Whether you're looking for tools to support your healing journey and personal growth resources. Explore guides, books, reflections, and practical content designed to help you grow in confidence, clarity, and courage as you move from brokenness to boldness. You can access our resources on the links below:
Handling Life Transitions? Alignment Workbook
Start your journey to Self-Discovery and Growth with The Bold and Boldness Journal
Learn the Importance of Telling Your Story: Top Ten Reasons Why You Should Open Up!