Does asking about suicide make it worse?
No. A 2014 editorial in Psychological Medicine reviewed 13 studies and found none showing that asking increases suicidal thoughts. Asking may even reduce them.
What might you be carrying?
You may be watching every word and mood, afraid of saying the wrong thing. Carrying that worry is heavy.
What does the research show?
The National Institute of Mental Health lists warning signs in three groups. Talking about wanting to die or being a burden. Feeling great guilt or shame, empty, hopeless, trapped, or in unbearable pain. Behavior like withdrawing, saying goodbye, giving away important items, or using more drugs or alcohol.
Harvard's Means Matter project notes that many attempts happen with little planning during a short-term crisis. Making dangerous items harder to reach can save a life.
It also reports a 2002 British Journal of Psychiatry review. Nine out of ten people who survive a suicide attempt do not later die by suicide.
What should you do next?
- Ask directly. A calm question like "Are you thinking about suicide?" tells your loved one it's safe to talk.
- Call or text 988 together. Trained counselors answer 24/7. If there is immediate danger, call 911.
- Make the home safer. Store firearms outside the home with someone you trust, and lock up medications.
- Stay close. If your loved one is at risk right now, keep someone with them until help arrives or the crisis eases.
- Tell the care team. Federal privacy rules do not stop providers from listening to family members. Providers can share information when they see a serious and imminent threat and family can help lessen it.
Where can you find help in your state?
Many areas have mobile crisis teams. See programs in Illinois, Wisconsin, DC, Maryland, Virginia, or California. In any state, calling or texting 988 connects you to a local crisis center.
What can you do once the crisis passes?
A written safety plan lists warning signs, coping steps, and who to call. Build one together with our family safety plan guide, and see 988: Help Someone Else.
This is general information, not legal or medical advice.
FAQ
Q: Will asking about suicide put the idea in my loved one's head?
No. A 2014 editorial in Psychological Medicine reviewed 13 studies and found none showing that asking about suicide increases suicidal thoughts.
Q: What happens when I call 988?
A trained counselor answers and talks with you about what is happening and what support is available. You can call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org, any time.
Q: What should I do with firearms and medications at home?
Storing firearms outside the home with someone you trust and locking up medications can help during a crisis. Harvard's Means Matter project notes that many attempts happen with little planning, so time and distance matter.