HOW TO SUPPORT SOMEONE WHO MAY BE THINKING ABOUT SUICIDE

Start With Care

If you are worried about someone, trust your instincts and reach out. 
 
You might say:

• "I've noticed you haven't seemed like yourself lately." 
• "You seem really overwhelmed. Do you want to talk?"
• "I'm worried about you."
• "You don't have to go through this alone."
• "I care about you and want to help."

Listen More Than You Talk

DO: 

• Stay calm and non-judgmental.
• Let them talk without interrupting.
• Validate their feelings:
  • "That sounds really difficult." 
  • "I can see why you're hurting."
  • "Thank you for telling me."
• Use open-ended questions:
  • "Can you tell me more?"
  • "What has been hardest lately?"
  • "How long have you been feeling this way?"

Ask Directly About Suicide

Many people worry that asking about suicide will put the idea into someone's head.

Research shows that asking directly does not increase suicide risk and can help a person feel supported. 

Ask clearly:

• "Are you thinking about suicide?"
• "Are you thinking about killing yourself?"

If they say yes, stay calm.

If They Say Yes

ASK: 

• "Do you have a plan?"
• "Do you have access to what you would use?"

If they have a plan and access:

• Do not leave them alone.
• Get immediate help. Either drive to the nearest ER or call AMPS emergency services to attend the home.
• Contact a trusted adult, caregiver, crisis service, or emergency services.
• Stay with them until support arrives. 

What Not To Say

AVOID:

• "You're overreacting."
• "Others have it worse."
• "Just think positive."
• "You have so much to live for."

Lecturing, arguing, or trying to immediately solve all their problems. 

What Helps Most

• Listening with compassion.
• Accepting their feelings.
• Helping them connect with trusted adults.
• Encouraging connection to family, culture, community, Elders, friends, and supportive activities.
• Reminding them that help and hope are available. 

Crisis Support

Suicide Crisis Helpline

• Call or Text 9-8-8 
• Available: 24/7

Kids Help Phone

• Call: 1-800-668-6868
• Text: CONNECT to 686868
• Available: 24/7

Akwesasne Family Wellness Program

• Call: 613-937-4322
• Call: 1-800-480-4208

Cornwall Community Hospital Emergency Department

•  Call: 613-938-4240 

Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service (AMPS) 

• Call: 613-575-2340 (Non-Emergency Line)

 
Remember: You do not have to be a counsellor to help. Listening, caring, and connecting someone to support could save a life.