It’s one of the hardest questions to ask someone you care about:
“Are you thinking about hurting yourself?”
Yet it could be the most important conversation you ever have. September is Suicide Prevention Month—a time to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and encourage open, compassionate conversations around mental health. If you’re worried about a friend, teammate, coworker, or loved one, you don’t have to have the perfect words. You just have to start.
Recognizing the Warning Signs of Suicide
Suicidal thoughts often don’t look like what we see in movies. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) offers a clear breakdown of risk factors, protective factors, and warning signs. Here are some signs to look out for:
- Expressing hopelessness or saying things like, “I don’t want to be here anymore.”
- Withdrawing from friends, family, or usual routines
- Increased use of alcohol or drugs
- Giving away possessions or saying goodbye in subtle ways
- A sudden sense of calmness after a long period of distress
- Talking about feeling like a burden to others
If your gut says something is off, trust it. You don’t have to diagnose someone to offer support.
How to Start the Conversation
It’s normal to feel nervous. But asking directly—and with genuine care—can be incredibly grounding for the person you’re worried about. Here’s how to open the door:
- Pick a private, calm moment.
Try:- “I’ve noticed you haven’t seemed like yourself lately. I’m here if you want to talk.”
- “You’ve been on my mind—how are you really doing?”
- Be direct and gentle.
If you suspect suicidal thoughts, ask clearly but compassionately:- “Are you thinking about ending your life?”
- “Have you been feeling like you don’t want to keep going?”
Research shows that asking about suicide does not put the idea in someone’s head—it communicates that you care and that they are not alone.
What to Do If They Say Yes
- Stay present. Don’t panic. Just listen.
- Thank them for their honesty. It takes courage to share something so vulnerable.
- Avoid judgment or quick fixes. Try:
- “That sounds really hard. I’m glad you told me.”
- Encourage professional help. Offer to help them call a therapist, text a crisis line, or reach out to a trusted adult.
- If they’re in immediate danger, don’t leave them alone. Call 911 or the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (available 24/7).
If They Say No, But You’re Still Concerned
Even if they deny suicidal thoughts, keep showing up. Let them know:
- You care
- You’re not going anywhere
- You’re available to talk anytime
Mental health struggles don’t always escalate to crisis—but support is valuable at every stage.
How Therapy Can Help
Therapy provides a safe, judgment-free space to unpack difficult thoughts, explore coping strategies, and feel understood. At Dayrise Wellness, our therapists support teens, young adults, and families through:
- Depression
- Suicidal ideation
- Trauma recovery
- Identity and life transitions
We use evidence-based approaches like CBT, DBT, ACT, and trauma-informed care to help clients build resilience, find hope, and reconnect with life’s possibilities. You don’t have to navigate this alone.
Your Words Matter
If someone opens up to you, it means they trust you. You don’t have to “fix” everything—you just need to stay connected. Check in. Listen well. Point them toward professional help. Your presence could be the first step toward healing.
If you or someone you know is in crisis:
Call or text 988 in the U.S., or use the webchat at 988lifeline.org.
