When it comesTO SUICIDE,

tALKING IT OUTCAN HELP

WHEN IT COMES

TO SUICIDE,

TALKING IT OUT

CAN HELP

Suicidal thoughts can feel heavy and hard to talk about. But talking it through could get you the support you want or need. This is a safe place to help you or a friend start the conversation.

Find support now
a young boy

If you or someone you know is in life-threatening danger, call 911

teen on phone

Reaching out is one way to start

There’s no wrong way to start. It’s not easy, but talking with someone can help you work through whatever you’re feeling. Your feelings are valid, and you’re not alone.

teen listening

Choose someone you trust

Talk to someone who makes you feel safe and seen. This could be a friend, family member, or mentor you trust and feel comfortable with.

teen on phone

Meet up, call, text, or video chat

Reach out your way. Do whatever feels comfortable. Even if it’s a text asking to chat.

teen on computer

Ask for what you need

Opening up about what you need can be difficult, but your needs matter. Tell friends if you want them to just listen, talk, or help you get professional support.

2 teen girls talking

Figure out next steps together

Sometimes it's hard to know what you need—especially when you’re working through heavy emotions. Be open to exploring what you might want or need.

teen looking down

Start by saying something

When it comes to suicide, it’s not about saying the “right thing”. It’s about saying something if you’re worried about someone. Checking in and showing you care is what matters most.

2 teens talking

Offer safety and support

Holding a safe space can help them open up and say how they’re truly feeling. Tell them you’ve noticed they haven’t been themselves lately. With care, ask them if they’re open to talking.

a teen boy

Ask about suicide directly

Talking about it doesn’t cause it. It’s more likely to save their life. Go with your gut, be open, and ask sincerely if they’re thinking about suicide.

two teens talking

Ask open-ended questions

Ask questions about how they’re feeling and try to understand how you can best support them, whether it’s helping them find a resource or making a call together.

two teens talking

Listen and be ready to support

Give them your full attention. Give them the space to share their thoughts and feelings. When they share, tell them you know that what they're going through is tough.

two teens talking

Offer support, not a solution

It’s natural to want to find a solution. Be a shoulder to lean on instead of trying to fix how they feel. That way they’ll be more open to outside resources or professional help.

DOWNLOADS

Here are additional resources on how to talk about suicide:

Tips to start a conversation

Download pdf

Resources to ask
for help

Download pdf

Resources to support
my friend

Download pdf

We can help you prevent suicide

WE CAN HELP YOU

PREVENT SUICIDE

Text or call 988 to talk with a trained counselor who’ll listen without judgment and provide free 24/7 support.

Text

Crisis Text Line provides access to 24/7 support to anyone in any type of crisis. Text 741741 or chat with a live counselor. It’s free and confidential.

Free phone app on iOS and Android. It provides information, tools, and resources to help yourself or a friend who may be struggling with thoughts of suicide.

24/7 confidential support for LGBTQ+ young people. Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678.

Additional resources on how to support yourself or a friend who is experiencing thoughts of suicide.

Free and confidential mental health coaching via chat or phone. Tap into wellness tips and tools. Call 800-843-5200 for 1:1 coaching.

Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) is a FREE training designed to educate the public on the basic skills necessary to recognize the warning signs that someone may be thinking of suicide. If you’re under 18 years old, parent consent is required to register.