Discussing Suicide with Empathy: A Guide for Expressing Sympathy and Understanding
In the face of a global mental health crisis, it's crucial to equip ourselves with the knowledge and resources to help those in need. Here's a guide to some of the key services and practices that can make a difference.
Firstly, Befrienders Worldwide provides a helpline directory for individuals outside the United States who may be in crisis or considering suicide or self-harm. This global network offers a lifeline for those in need, no matter where they are in the world.
In the United States, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is a critical resource. Established by the US government, this 24-hour hotline serves as a national suicide prevention and crisis intervention service. Recent legislative efforts, led by bipartisan senators Tammy Baldwin and Lisa Murkowski, have focused on supporting and restoring funding for specialized services like the LGBTQ+ youth helpline.
When you call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, you'll be connected to a crisis worker who will listen, provide support, and share resources. The Crisis Text Line, another free, confidential support service, is accessible 24/7 by texting HOME to 741741.
It's essential to approach conversations about suicide with care and empathy. Avoid using words like 'selfish', 'stupid', 'cowardly', 'weak', 'choice', or 'sin' when discussing suicide with a loved one. Instead, listen without judgment, take their concerns seriously, and let them know that you care. Active listening, such as asking questions and using verbal encouragers, can help a loved one feel acknowledged and validated during a difficult conversation.
If a loved one refuses help, continue to listen and provide support without judgment, and offer resources like the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Offering support and encouraging a loved one to seek help from a doctor or therapist can be beneficial in a crisis situation.
Research shows that asking directly about suicidal thoughts does not increase the risk of suicidal ideation and may actually be beneficial. It's important to remember that suicidal behavior can affect people of all genders, ages, and ethnicities. Surrounding a person who is suicidal with support from family and friends is crucial. Crisis support networks, such as the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, are available if a person is not in immediate danger.
If someone expresses suicidal thoughts, listen, ask questions, and encourage them to get help, without invalidating their thoughts or feelings. If you believe someone is in immediate danger, call 911 or a local emergency number. If available, request a Crisis Intervention Team trained to manage behavioral crisis situations.
Creating a safety plan with a loved one experiencing suicidal thoughts can involve identifying triggers, outlining coping strategies, listing contacts, writing down emergency numbers, and reducing access to lethal means. Following up with individuals who have expressed suicidal thoughts may reduce the perceived risk of future suicidal behavior.
Suicide was the leading cause of death in the United States in 2020, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers 24/7 support for emotional distress, with the option to call, text, or chat with a trained crisis worker.
In conclusion, it's crucial to be informed about the resources available for those in crisis and to approach conversations about suicide with empathy and care. By listening, offering support, and encouraging help-seeking behaviours, we can make a difference in the lives of those struggling with suicidal thoughts.
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