Thread by @MindCharity

🧵 Many of us find talking about suicide difficult. But for someone who’s feeling suicidal, talking about it could be their first step towards getting help.

Here are some tips to help you when talking to someone about suicidal feelings this #WorldSuicidePreventionDay (1/9)

Ask open questions. Questions that invite someone to say more than 'yes' or 'no' such as 'How have you been feeling?' or 'What happened next?' (2/9)

Give them time. You might feel anxious to hear their answers, but it helps if you let them take the time they need. (3/9)

Take them seriously. People who talk about suicide do sometimes act on their feelings - it's a common myth that they don't. (4/9)

Try not to judge. You might feel shocked, upset or frightened, but it's important no to blame the person for how they're feeling. They may have taken a big step by telling you. (5/9)

Don't skirt around the topic. The taboo around suicide can make it hard for people to open up. Direct questions like 'Are you having suicidal thoughts?' can help someone talk about how they're feeling. (6/9)

Asking them directly won't make them more likely to act on their suicidal feelings. It can encourage them to be honest about how they're feeling. Many people feel relieved and less isolated when they're asked. (7/9)

Look after yourself. Having these conversation can be hard so it's important to take care of yourself too. It may help to talk about your own feelings and worries, or get support from people who've had similar experiences. (8/9)

If you're worried someone's at immediate risk of taking their life:

- Stay with them.
- Get emergency help by either calling 999 or going to A&E.

(9/9)