Thread by @NPR

If you know someone struggling with depression or thoughts of suicide, you may be wondering how to help.

Start by reaching out.

Here are 9 things you can do to make a difference for someone who is struggling. #WorldSuicidePreventionDay trib.al/jObUo5l

1️⃣ Recognize the warning signs: Signs of suicide risk include changes in mood and behavior, an expert says.

It’s also important to pay attention to a person’s words.

2️⃣ Reach out and ask, 'Are you OK?'

People who are having thoughts of suicide often feel trapped and alone, experts say.

Reaching out and offering support may reduce the sense of isolation.

3️⃣ Be direct: Ask about suicide

Some people worry this may have unintended consequences — but experts say there’s no research to support that.

Asking directly and compassionately about suicide is a key tool for prevention.

4️⃣ Assess risk and don't panic

Suicidal feelings aren't always an emergency.

But how do you know if it's an immediate crisis?

For help, this tool walks you through 6 questions to ask your loved one about whether they've had thoughts about suicide: bit.ly/2VbHGst

5️⃣ If it's a crisis, stick around

So what if you've assessed risk and you fear your loved one is in an immediate crisis?

First, request them to hold off for a day or so, an expert says.

At the same time, be "validating and gentle."

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline offers this guide to the 5 action steps to take if someone you know is in imminent danger: bit.ly/2VlvwgR

If you don't feel confident about helping someone through a crisis, call its hotline at 1-800-273-8255.

6️⃣ Listen and offer hope

If the person is not in immediate risk, survivors say it is still important to listen to them.

"The biggest thing is listening in an open-minded way, to not be judgmental," explains a medical assistant and survivor.

7️⃣ Help your loved one make a safety plan

When a person is not in immediate risk, it's a good time to think about preventing a future crisis.

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention has a template for creating a safety plan: n.pr/2KQwGN9

8️⃣ Help them tackle the mental health care system

To prevent a future crisis, offer to help your loved one connect with a mental health professional to find out whether medications can help them and to learn ways to manage their mood and suicidal thinking.

9️⃣ Explore tools and support online

For those struggling to access mental health care, there are some evidence-based digital tools that can also help.

You can find a list of those resources at the bottom of this page: trib.al/jObUo5l

If you or someone you know may be considering suicide, contact:

• The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
• En Español: 1-888-628-9454
• The Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 #WorldSuicidePreventionDay