What should I do if someone tells me they are thinking about suicide?

Never promise to keep someone’s thoughts of suicide secret. If they ask you not to tell anyone, explain that you will respect their privacy as much as possible but they need more help than you can give. Encourage them to tell someone who can offer more support. Share contact information for suicide prevention resources in your area.

If they will not seek help, you need to tell someone for them. You may want to say something such as, “I care about you and want you to be safe. I am going to call someone who can offer you the help you need.” Respect their privacy by telling only someone you think can help, such as a close family member, the person’s bishop, a school counselor, or a health care professional. If you are not sure who to tell, call or text a free crisis helpline in your area. Remember, the Lord does not expect you to support the person on your own.

Church and Community Resources

• “To the Rescue: We Can Do It,” Mervyn B. Arnold, Ensign or Liahona, May 2016, 53–55.

• “Taking Time to Talk and Listen,” Rosemary M. Wixom, Ensign, Apr. 2012, 10–13; or Liahona, Apr. 2012, 34–37.

• “Understanding Suicide,” New Era, Sept. 2016, 36–37.