How do I start a conversation with someone I’m worried about?

Find a time and place where you can both feel safe to talk. Tell your friend that you genuinely care about them. Explain what you’ve observed recently, such as, “You seem so unhappy lately.” Give them time to explain how they are feeling. Show that you care by listening to what they say. Respect their feelings by saying something such as, “I’m sorry you are in so much pain” or “I didn’t realize how hard things were for you.”

When the time seems right, ask them directly if they are thinking about suicide. You might say something such as, “Are you thinking about taking your life?” If they say that they are thinking about suicide, ask them if they have a plan. You might ask, “Do you have a plan to hurt yourself?” If they have a plan, immediately call an emergency service provider or a crisis help line in your area.

If they do not have a plan, show that you care by listening to what they say. Then encourage them to tell someone who can offer more support. See “How to Help Someone in Crisis” on this website for additional ideas.

Church and Community Resources

(Some of the resources listed below are not created, maintained, or controlled by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. These materials are intended to serve as additional helpful resources as you study this topic. The Church does not endorse any content that is not in keeping with its doctrines and teachings.)

• “God Knows You,” Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Youth Videos, ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

• “By Divine Design,” Ronald A. Rasband, Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2017, 55–57.

• “7 Things Attempt Survivors Wish Their Families and Friends Knew,” Lifeline for Attempt Survivors.

• “Helping a Suicidal Friend or Relative,” Befrienders Worldwide.

• “Help Someone Else,” National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

• “Preventing Suicide,” Carol F. McConkie (video, suicide.ChurchofJesusChrist.org).