How to respond if your loved one is having suicidal thoughts

person crying beside the bed

What do you do if your loved one tells you they’re thinking about ending their life?

It can be difficult to know how to react when someone close to you reveals that they’re feeling suicidal. Stay calm and know that you’re not alone. There are professionals who can help support your loved one and get them the help they need.

In this post, we will discuss the best ways to respond if your loved one is having suicidal thoughts.

Offer hope

Remind them that things can and will get better.

Let them know that you support them and that you’re there for them no matter what. Most importantly, don’t feed their negative thoughts. They need some positivity now more than ever.

Avoid judgment

Your loved one is already feeling a lot of pain about life, and the last thing they need is for you to add your mindless comments.

Instead, try to be supportive. Let them know that you want to help them get through this tough time. Promote hope and healing, and be understanding if your loved one doesn’t want to immediately talk about what’s going on.

Take their feelings seriously
comforting a loved one

Image Credits: unsplash.com

When your loved one is having suicidal thoughts, take their feelings seriously. This isn’t the time for jokes or making light of the situation.

Your loved one is probably feeling a lot of confusion about recent happenings, and they need you to be there. Talk to them about their thoughts and feelings, and let them know that you’re ready to listen anytime.

Help them develop a plan to move forward

Remember that suicidal thought are just that—thoughts. They don’t have to become a reality.

Help your loved one develop a plan to move forward. This might involve therapy, medication, or just someone to talk to. The crucial thing is that your loved one knows they’re not alone and that there are people who care about them and want to help them get through this challenging time.

You may feel lost and unsure of what to do if your loved one is having suicidal thoughts, but remember that you are not alone. There are people who can help you, and there are steps you can take to support your loved one. Also, don’t neglect taking care of yourself. Supporting a loved one who is struggling with suicidal thoughts can be emotionally draining. Make sure to take time for yourself and allow yourself to heal too.

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