Today is World Suicide Prevention Day. It is a day to raise awareness of suicide prevention.
Suicide is one of the most difficult topics to talk about. Yet silence often makes the struggle worse.
The truth is, suicide rarely comes out of nowhere. There are often warning signs, moments of vulnerability, or words spoken in distress that can be heard as a call for help.
Possible early signs of suicidality
Not everyone who is thinking about suicide will show obvious warning signs, but some patterns can indicate that someone may be struggling:
Expressing feelings of hopelessness (“Things will never get better”).
Talking about being a burden or feeling that others would be better off without them.
Withdrawing from friends, family, or usual activities.
Significant changes in mood, sleep, or behaviour.
Talking directly or indirectly about death or suicide.
Giving away possessions or saying “goodbyes” that feel unusual.
It’s important to remember: spotting one sign doesn’t mean someone is suicidal. But together, these signals can indicate deep distress and should never be ignored.
What to do if someone says they want to end their life
Listen calmly and without judgement. Let them speak without rushing to give solutions.
Take them seriously. Never assume it’s “just talk.” Speaking about suicide is often a sign of immense courage.
Stay with them in the moment. Your presence and attention can be life-saving.
Encourage professional help. Suggest contacting their GP, a therapist, or a crisis helpline. Offer to help them make the call if they feel unable.
If they are in immediate danger, call 999. Safety must always come first.
Helping with feelings of hopelessness Often, people who feel suicidal describe their pain as unbearable and unending. They may not want to die but may feel they can’t go on living as things are.
In those moments, you can help by:
Acknowledging their pain. Simple words like, “I can hear how much you’re hurting,” can be powerful.
Reminding them that feelings can change. What feels permanent may not be.
Offering small steps. Focusing on the next hour, or even the next few minutes, can feel less overwhelming than “the future.”
Connecting them with support. Encouraging them to reach out to helplines, medical professionals, or trusted people in their network.
None of us can carry someone else’s burden alone but we can be a bridge to safety and support. Suicide prevention is not about having the perfect words or the right answers. It’s about listening, staying present, and helping people find the help they need.
If you or someone you know is struggling:
Samaritans (UK & ROI): 116 123 (free, 24/7)
Breathing Space (Scotland): 0800 83 85 87
NHS 111 – option 2 for urgent mental health support
Or call 999 if someone is in immediate danger.
💙 Talking about suicide saves lives. Let’s keep the conversation open.
