Concerned about someone?

If you are concerned that someone you care about is feeling hopeless and might be facing a suicidal crisis, the best thing to do is ask direct questions and listen to their answers.

It is OK to ask someone if they are feeling suicidal.

We know it can be scary, but you can use those words. It won’t put ideas into their head. It will help to start talking about how they are feeling.

Be ready to listen.

This is a big conversation and you need to stop what you’re doing and listen. Be prepared for the response, which may be emotional or upsetting. Have resources to hand such as Hub of Hope ready on your phone or phone numbers for helplines and their GP. Say what you’re going to do to help them and stick to it.

Listen to what they are saying, and how they are feeling, not what you are feeling.

Remember you are there to offer support to them. A simple statement like “I’m so sorry that you’re feeling like this” and an offer of practical support such as “let’s get you some help, shall we call your GP?” are valuable first steps.  Don’t feel that you need to solve all their problems.

Look after yourself.

It can be really hard to hear what someone in a suicidal crisis is saying, especially if it feels it might be about you or if it takes you back to a place when you were struggling. Know that there is support available for you too. You can find valuable resources online on how to support someone who is experiencing suicidal thoughts.

Suicide is preventable and there is help out there – such as your GP, the Crisis Text Line (text JP to 85258), Samaritans, Papyrus, CALM and here at James’ Place.

Contact us

If you believe that a man you care about who lives in the Merseyside area could benefit from James’ Place support and is not currently being supported by a psychiatrist or mental health team, please contact us.