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How to interrupt someone’s suicidal thoughts

Sections

1. What is an interruption?

2. Ways to start a conversation

3. Be there for them in the moment

4. Listen without judgement

5. Show that you really care

6. Don’t be afraid to ask if they’re having suicidal thoughts

7. Help the person take their mind off how they’re feeling

8. There’s no quick fix, but in that moment you can save someone’s life

8. There’s no quick fix, but in that moment you can save someone’s life

Some interruptions have a temporary impact, while others leave a lasting impression. But in that moment, you could save someone’s life.

For me, staying alive didn’t happen in a single moment – it was lots of small rescues.

Member of Samaritans' lived experience panel

Here are some suggestions from people with lived experience:

Two people sat at a train station talking
  • If you know the person, don’t take it personally that they’re feeling suicidal and don’t use guilt to try to persuade them not to act. Listening, distraction and validation are much more effective at helping someone through suicidal feelings.
  • “Suicidal thoughts don’t come and go quickly, it takes a long time for those feelings to pass. You need someone to say 'I'm here, for as long as you need me’.”

What stayed with me was that there was someone there for me to listen, talk and help me. The impact of support lasted for a while. Then when I knew that I could always get help and support, I was able to cope better with any bad thoughts and got to understand that I could finally get through the bad experiences that I have been facing. If I did experience a bad setback, I could always get support again if I needed it.

Member of Samaritans' lived experience panel

If you are worried and feel you need to share anything that has been shared with you, try to discuss it with the person first. Tell them what you intend to do, who you wish to tell and why.

In case of an emergency

If you think the person is in immediate danger, make sure they are not left alone and seek urgent help by contacting the emergency services by calling 999 in the UK or 112 in Ireland.

Taking care of yourself

It's essential to take care of yourself during this process. Supporting someone in crisis can be emotionally demanding, so reach out for support if you need it.

If you're struggling with suicidal thoughts

Our lived experience panel also shared ideas for how to support yourself if you’re struggling with suicidal thoughts.

Samaritans are here to listen. Call free day or night on 116 123.

Remember, these ideas and suggestions came from people with experience of suicidal thoughts. Everybody is different and what works for one person might not be right for someone else, but they’ve shared lots of different ideas and examples of things they find helpful when they’re having suicidal thoughts.

Need support? Call 116 123 to speak to a Samaritan or

view other ways to get in touch