Mood & speech
Hopelessness, feeling like a burden, saying “people would be better off without me,” or sudden calm after deep distress.
Recognize
Warning signs that need attention
These signals don’t always mean someone will act, but they are invitations to check in.
Behavior
Withdrawing, giving away belongings, reckless driving, increased substance use, searching for methods, or saying goodbye.
Physical cues
Severe sleep changes, fatigue, loss of appetite, or unexplained aches. Combined with despair, these are red flags.
Respond
How to help in the moment
A calm, direct approach can lower risk and build safety.
Ask, listen, assure
- Ask directly about suicide; it does not “put the idea” in someone’s head.
- Listen fully; avoid fixing, arguing, or minimizing.
- Assure them they’re not alone and that help is available right now.
Build a quick safety plan
- Remove or lock away lethal means (medications, firearms, sharp objects).
- Identify one safe place and two supportive people to contact.
- Agree on the next immediate step: call/text 988, text 741741, or visit an ER.
✔
Use calm phrases: “Thank you for telling me. I’m here with you.”
✔
Stay physically present or on the phone until another helper takes over.
✔
If danger is immediate, call 911 and clearly state it is a mental health crisis.
Understand
Myths vs. facts
Clearing up misconceptions reduces stigma and encourages people to seek help.
Myth
“Talking about suicide makes it more likely.”
Fact
Asking directly can reduce anxiety and open a path to safety and care.
Myth
“They’re just looking for attention.”
Fact
Any mention of suicide is serious. Attention is a human need for connection and help.
Myth
“Improvement after crisis means the risk is gone.”
Fact
Risk can return. Keep checking in and help connect to ongoing support.
Myth
“Only professionals can help.”
Fact
Friends and family can stabilize situations by listening, staying present, and linking to care.
Resources
Where to reach out right now
These services are free, confidential, and available 24/7 in the United Kingdom.
Samaritans
Call 116 123 for round-the-clock listening support anywhere in the UK or ROI.
Call 116 123Shout
Text SHOUT to 85258 to message with a trained volunteer.
Open textPapyrus HOPELINEUK
For people under 35 and those supporting them: 0800 068 4141 or text 07860 039967 (9am–midnight).
Call 0800 068 4141 Text 07860 039967NHS 111
Call 111 or use 111.nhs.uk for urgent mental health advice and local crisis teams.
Call 111If you are outside the UK, search your country’s crisis line. In immediate danger, contact local emergency services (e.g., 112 in the EU).
After the crisis
Support for the days and weeks ahead
Recovery is a process. Continue gentle contact and encourage professional care.
Follow-up
- Send a short check-in within 24 hours and again later in the week.
- Offer to help schedule a primary care or therapy appointment.
- Share coping supports: walks, music, grounding exercises, journaling.
Care team
- Encourage connecting with a therapist, doctor, or support group.
- Help them create a written safety plan and keep a copy accessible.
- Celebrate small steps—sleeping, eating, showing up—over “feeling happy.”