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Ask directly

If you’re worried someone may be thinking about suicide, don’t be afraid to ask.

“Are you thinking about ending your life?”

Asking calmly and directly won’t put the idea into their head. It shows you care, you’re willing to listen and you’re taking their feelings seriously.

If they say yes

  1. 1

    Stay calm

    Listen carefully and thank them for trusting you.

  2. 2

    Take them seriously

    Avoid judging, dismissing their feelings or rushing to offer solutions.

  3. 3

    Ask about their safety

    Gently find out if they have a plan, access to anything they could use to harm themselves or intend to act soon.

  4. 4

    Help them stay safe

    Stay with them if possible and safe. Help reduce access to anything they could use to harm themselves.

  5. 5

    Encourage professional support

    Help them contact their GP, NHS 111 or a mental health professional. If they’re in immediate danger, call 999.

If life is in immediate danger

Remember