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Helping Someone in Crisis

If a friend tells you about their thoughts of suicide, you may be startled or react emotionally. Whatever your response, it’s important to try to remain non-judgmental and patient while showing genuine concern.

It may be a challenging and unfamiliar conversation to have but it might also be life-changing.

Listen to understand

We’ve all been in the situation where advice is the last thing we need to hear.

Instead, recognise their struggle or what they’ve just said and invite them to keep talking. A person would not bring up suicide unless they are going through an extremely distressing period in their life.

While listening, check on how they’ve coped so far and explore what resources they've tried so far.

Photo Captions are for reference only, will not be in final version: http://www.istockphoto.com/sg/vector/veterinarian-gm150926370-21228082

Photo: http://www.istockphoto.com/sg/vector/veterinarian-gm150926370-21228082

Encourage them to seek help

Let them know that it’s absolutely alright to seek out other additional help they may require.

They may already be thinking of reaching out to a mental health or counselling professional but may not know where to start. Offer to accompany them to make an appointment if necessary. Having someone there with them can help them feel less alone and uncertain.

Make a Referral

If you believe that someone you know may be at risk of suicide or is contemplating suicide, make a referral to SOS by writing to pat@sos.org.sg, or calling our 24-hour hotline at 1800-221 4444.

Together, we can be there for those in crisis or thinking about suicide.

Contact

Photo: Watercolor old mint telephone

Credit By: Samaritans of Singapore (SOS)
Source: https://www.sos.org.sg

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