How To Help Someone With Suicidal Thoughts, Psychotherapist Shares Tips

Life is not always smooth. It brings along both good and bad days. Some days can be hard. While some of us manage to overcome the obstacles life throws at us, others aren't strong enough to stand against them and eventually give up. In the year 2021, as per a report by NCBI, over one lakh suicide deaths were reported in the country. According to the report, the numbers increased by 7.2% in comparison to the previous year.

Anyone, irrespective of their age, gender, or background can have suicidal thoughts. Individuals having suicide ideation need professional help and support. If you know someone who is struggling with suicidal thoughts, this article is for you. 

We spoke to Dr Chandni Tugnait, M.D. (Alternative Medicines), psychotherapist and founder and director of Gateway of Healing, and asked her to share a guide for individuals to help people with suicidal thoughts around them. She said, “When someone you care about confides suicidal thoughts, it can feel daunting to know how to help. But you have more power than you realise. With non-judgmental listening, rallying proper clinical care, and consistent emotional support, you can help save a life. Remember to always involve mental health experts too.” Some questions might pop into your head when you encounter someone with suicidal thoughts, our expert answered some common ones here. 

What To Tell A Person Having Suicidal Thoughts? 

• Be a compassionate listener, be gentle with your words, and guide them to get professional help. 
• Let them know that you are thankful for them putting their trust in you and emphasize hope. 
• Ask them about their plans to ensure their safety. 

• Don't do it all alone, involve mental health experts right away. Do it while providing non-judgmental emotional support to the person. Let them know they are not alone. Validate their pain but do convey that proper help can improve their outlook.

How To Help Someone With Suicidal Thoughts?

• Offer help with arranging crisis support or mental health services. 
• While they are undergoing their treatment, offer emotional support to them by checking on them frequently. 

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• Recommend positive coping strategies as supplemental tools but not as substitutes for clinical care. 
• If you feel imminent danger, contact emergency services. 

What Not To Say To People With Suicidal Thoughts?

• Avoid making comments that can worsen distress like "you have so much to live for" or "just snap out of it”, they won’t minimise their suffering. 
• Don't put them to guilt, avoid lecturing them about the value of life or philosophical reasons not to commit suicide. 
• Avoid sharing stories of those better off or telling them that "others have it worse." 

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• Don't swear to secrecy if they confide plans, instead involve professionals to ensure their safety. 

• How To Help Those With Suicidal Thoughts Reach Professional Help?
• Offer to schedule appointments for the person. Provide them with contact information for crisis services, mental health providers, or hotlines. 
• Check available treatment options under their medical insurance. 
• For minors, notify the parents. Accompany them during their session if comfortable. 
• Ask how you can best support the process. 
• Make sure that the person undergoes proper diagnosis and treatment 
• Offer transportation assistance, appointment reminders, and attending therapy. 
• Validate their courageous step towards getting themselves treated. 
• Continue providing emotional support during the treatment.