World Suicide Prevention Day: How to Talk About Suicide and Support Others

Think Happy Live Healthy
Sep 9
3 min read

By Maria Perroots:

Why World Suicide Prevention Day Matters

Every year on September 10, the world comes together to recognize World Suicide Prevention Day — a global initiative to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote actionable steps to prevent suicide.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 700,000 people die by suicide each year, and millions more struggle with suicidal thoughts. Behind these statistics are real people—friends, parents, coworkers, students, and neighbors.

The good news? Suicide is preventable, and one of the most powerful tools we have is conversation.

Why Talking About Suicide Is So Hard — But So Necessary

Many people avoid talking about suicide out of fear—fear of saying the wrong thing or making it worse. But silence can actually be more harmful than imperfect words.

“Talking about suicide doesn't plant the idea — it opens the door to support and safety.” –

Mental Health First Aid

Studies show that open, non-judgmental conversations about suicide can reduce distress, increase safety, and even save lives.

How to Talk to Someone About Suicide: Step-by-Step Guide

If you are worried about someone in your life, here’s how you can approach them with compassion and clarity:

1. Find a Safe, Private Space

Choose a quiet, non-distracting environment where you both feel comfortable. Turn off your phone, sit down, and be present.

2. Ask Directly — and Compassionately

Contrary to common myths, directly asking someone about suicide does not increase risk. In fact, it can be a huge relief for someone who is struggling.

Try saying:

“I’ve noticed you’ve been really down lately. Are you thinking about suicide?”
“Are you thinking about ending your life?”
“Sometimes people who feel this way think about suicide. Is that what’s going on for you?”

Be calm, nonjudgmental, and ready to listen.

3. Listen Without Trying to “Fix”

Let them talk and do not interrupt. While you may feel tempted to offer quick solutions, resist the urge. What they need most is to feel heard and seen.

Avoid saying:

“But you have so much to live for!”
“Things will get better soon.”
“You’re just being dramatic.”

Instead say:

“Thank you for trusting me.”
“I’m so sorry you’re feeling this way.”
“You’re not alone. I’m here with you.”

4. Assess Immediate Risk

If the person is in immediate danger, do not leave them alone. Call emergency services or take them to the nearest ER.

You can gently ask:

“Do you have a plan to take your life?”
“Do you have access to things you could use to hurt yourself, like pills, firearms, or other means?”
“Have you attempted suicide before?”

5. Connect Them to Professional Help

Offer to:

Call a suicide crisis line together
Help them find a therapist
Drive them to a walk-in mental health clinic

📞 In the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7.

Know the Warning Signs of Suicide

Recognizing the red flags can help you intervene early. Warning signs include:

Talking about wanting to die or feeling hopeless
Withdrawing from friends, family, or activities
Giving away possessions or saying goodbye
Sudden calmness after intense depression
Increase in risky behavior or substance use

If something feels off, trust your gut and check in.

If You Are Struggling — Please Read This

If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide, you are not broken, weak, or a burden. You are human — and you deserve help and support.

You can:

Call or text 988 (U.S.) for free, 24/7 support
Talk to a trusted friend or family member
Reach out to Think Happy Live Healthy, and we’ll connect you with a therapist who can best support your needs

You don’t have to have all the answers. You just have to take one step toward support.

You Can Be the Lifeline

World Suicide Prevention Day is not just about raising awareness—it’s about taking action. Whether that means reaching out to someone else or asking for help yourself, every conversation matters.

Ways to Support Suicide Prevention on September 10 (and Beyond)

Here are a few meaningful ways to honor the day and keep the conversation going: