Help in a crisis: What to do if someone has suicidal thoughts?

Suicidal thoughts are a serious and sensitive issue that often remains hidden. When we learn that someone close to us is struggling with such thoughts, it is crucial to respond appropriately. This article provides an informative guide on what you can do if you realise someone is having suicidal thoughts. What should I do if someone expresses suicidal thoughts? - Maria Ebene Foundation (supro.at)

Recognising the signs:

It is important to recognise signs of suicidal thoughts in order to be able to react in time. Changes in behaviour, social withdrawal, expressions of hopelessness or neglecting personal hygiene can indicate problems. Trust your gut feeling if you think that someone around you needs help.

Seek an open dialogue:

Approach the person gently and with empathy. An open conversation about their feelings can be relieving. Listen actively without passing judgement and show understanding for their situation. Reassure the person that you are there for them and take their feelings seriously.

Don't shy away from direct questions:

Don't be afraid to ask directly about suicidal thoughts. Clear and direct communication can help to avoid misunderstandings. For example, ask: "Have you thought about harming yourself recently?" This allows the person concerned to share their thoughts openly.

Encourage professional help:

Suicidal thoughts require professional support. Encourage the person concerned to contact specialists such as psychologists, psychiatrists or therapists. Help them to find suitable contact points and, if necessary, accompany them to an appointment.

Joint activities and social support:

Offer your company for joint activities and strengthen the affected person's social network. Joint activities can provide distraction and reduce the feeling of isolation. Show that you are there for the person not only in difficult times, but also in everyday life.

Develop a safety plan:

Work on a safety plan together with the person concerned. This can include emergency contacts, coping strategies and concrete steps that can be taken in crisis situations. A safety plan provides a clear structure and can serve as a supportive tool.

Inform your social environment:

Share the information about the suicidal thoughts responsibly with people in the person's close social environment. This could be friends, family or colleagues. Shared support from those around you can share the burden and have a stabilising effect.

Be persistent:

Suicidal thoughts are often an expression of deep emotional pain. Be persistent and stay by the person's side. The road to recovery can be long and it is important to provide ongoing support.

Have emergency numbers ready:

Have important emergency numbers ready and inform the person concerned of these. In many countries, there are special crisis intervention services that are available around the clock. Encourage the person to seek professional help immediately in acute emergencies.

Conclusion:

If you realise that someone is having suicidal thoughts, it is crucial to act quickly and sensitively. Show compassion, encourage professional help and offer support in everyday life. Suicide prevention is a shared task where every supportive gesture can make a difference. Remind the person concerned that they are not alone and make sure they get the help they need to get out of the crisis.

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