How to talk to someone who is depressed and suicidal

Below is a list of helpful things to tell someone battling depression , followed by what not to say—courtesy of the Depression Alliance, a national organization that campaigns to end the stigma. Sometimes depression feels unbearable. Some people get to the point where life doesn’t seem worth living. Suicidal thoughts aren’t unusual, and they’re nothing to be ashamed of.

Not respecting how the person feels can shut down communication.

People who are suicidal often feel alone an by talking to him or her, you remind the person that you care and will help the person in his or her fight against suicide. Most of us with suicidal thoughts have a crippling fear that our life is on the verge of falling apart, and a loop of negativity is often playing on “repeat” in our minds. Encourage your loved one to express these thoughts out loud or in writing. The article Things Not to Say to a Suicidal Person is SpeakingOfSuicide.

Research has shown that people tend to withdraw when they are depressed , so reaching out to a friend in need is an important first step. Things To Say To Someone Struggling With Depression. Often, the simple act of talking face to face can be an enormous help to someone suffering from depression.

Encourage the depressed person to talk about their feelings , and be willing to listen without judgment.

Talk to the person about your concern. Having an actual plan indicates a higher likelihood of attempting suicide. Tell them you are worried about them. If not, help them find a mental health professional and make an appointment or take them to a walk-in clinic at a psychiatric hospital or a hospital emergency room. Let the person know that you care, that they are not alone,.

Don’t argue someone out of suicide. Take it seriously if the depressed person talks about suicide, especially if they’re talking about specifics. Call their doctor for advice on what to do, or take them to the emergency room if the threat is imminent.

Talking to a person about suicide. The absence of craziness does not mean the absence of suicide risk. You cannot assume that. A person who is suicidal is at risk of suicide at any juncture. Ensure that all appropriate actions are taken to help the person before you leave.

When in doubt about what to do, call 9immediately. A suicidal person needs professional help. Medically reviewed by Timothy J.

Create or maintain balance. In relationships, we must continually assess whether we should meet the needs of our partners, our own needs, or the needs of the relationship. When we balance this well, we tend to feel fulfilled. Mock them by saying they are just looking for attention.

Ask them why they want to kill themselves. Turn it into a joke or encourage them to just do it. The First Thing to Talk About With a Suicidal Person The first and most important reason to talk to a suicidal person is to determine if his or her life is in immediate danger. Hang out with friends or family members feeling depressed or alone, even when you feel too busy. Depressed and suicidal people often feel very alone and isolated.

Usually, suicide is a solitary act. They may help you someday. Asking if someone’s OK. If you think someone is depresse talk to them about it.

It might be uncomfortable, but it can make a real difference — especially if they’ve been too afraid or embarrassed to reach out for help. Approaching them and offering your support sends a powerful message that they’re not alone. When talking to a suicidal person. The right words are often unimportant.

If you are concerne your voice and manner will show it. Let the suicidal person unload despair, ventilate anger. Or maybe you think they are only for people with depression who are in severe crisis, or depressed people who do not have a counselor to go to.