World Suicide Prevention Day: How to Talk to someone who is struggling

Today is World Suicide Prevention Day. Here at the Recovery College we have rolled out information, hints and tips throughout the week. Yesterday we focused on Myths vs Facts of suicide and today, we are looking at how to talk to someone you are worried about, and who may have suicidal thoughts.

Here are 5 practical tips for starting a conversation with someone you're worried about:

1. Choose the right time and place – Pick a private, calm setting where the person feels safe and not rushed. Create a safe space for yourself and the person you are talking to.
2. Start gently and with care – Use openers like "I've noticed you've seemed a bit down lately, how are you doing?" instead of diving straight into difficult questions. Other questions may be: "How have you been coping recently? What's happening in your life?" or "I have noticed that you have been doing (state behaviour). Is everything okay?"
3. Express concern, not judgment – Focus on what you've noticed and how you care, e.g., "I'm worried because you don't seem yourself."
4. Listen more than you talk – Give them space to share. Show you're listening through eye contact, nodding, and avoiding interruptions. Practice active listening, whereby you refrain from interrupting or judging. Allow them time to unburden themselves. Use open ended questions.
5. Offer support, not solutions – Let them know you're there for them, and suggest options gently (like talking to a professional), but don't pressure them.

This page is an excellent resource: Mind - How to Support Someone Who is Suicidal

If you, or anyone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, then help and support is out there for you.

Samaritans - call 116 123
SHOUT - text SHOUT to 85258
Papyrus Hopeline - 0800 068 4141

The RC Team

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The Recovery College is an educational learning environment for people who have an interest in, or personal difficulties with, mental health.

All of our sessions are created with people who have lived experience of challenges with their own mental health along with carers and healthcare professionals.

You do not need any formal qualifications or experience to attend the college. All of our courses are free of charge and open to anyone, aged 18 and over.

If you would like to enrol with us here at The Recovery College, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 0121 543 4061.