How can I help a friend who says they want to die?
If a friend says they want to die, take it seriously, ask them directly about suicide, and stay with them. Asking does not put the idea in their head. Studies show it does not increase suicidal thoughts.
If they might act on it now, call your local emergency number and do not leave them alone. In the US and Canada, call or text 988, any hour. In the UK and Ireland, Samaritans answer on 116 123, any hour. Anywhere else, findahelpline.com lists free lines by country. You can make the call together.
Listen more than you talk, without arguing or promising to keep it secret. Help them stay away from anything they could use to hurt themselves, help them connect with a crisis line, doctor or trusted person, and check in over the next days. Feelings this heavy do pass, and help works. Look after yourself too.
Source: NIMH: 5 action steps to help someone having thoughts of suicide
See a doctor promptly if
- Making a plan to end your life, even a vague one. Call your local emergency number now
- Preparing to act, such as getting things ready or putting affairs in order
- Saying goodbye to people, in person, in messages or online
- Giving away possessions that matter
- Feeling unable to keep yourself safe, even for the next few hours
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Answered by the AskDoc Medical Team · Medically reviewed under our Medical Director, MBBS · How we review
If you are not safe right now
If you might act on thoughts of suicide or self-harm, call your local emergency number now.
- US and Canada: call or text 988, any hour
- UK and Ireland: Samaritans, 116 123, any hour
- Anywhere else: findahelpline.com lists free lines by country
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Health education, not medical advice.