Help someone you're concerned about

We want Cambridge to be a community where people aren't afraid to reach out and have supportive conversations. 

This might feel daunting when you're concerned that someone is thinking about suicide. But, research tells us that asking supportively and directly about suicide, listening and offering guidance to professional help, can save a life. 

If someone you know is in crisis, seek support immediately.

Ways to help

  • Recognise possible signs
    • social isolation
    • talking about hopelessness or suicide
    • previous suicide attempts
    • past suicide bereavement
    • drugs or alcohol misuse
  • Start a conversation
    • discuss suicide in a supportive and safe way
    • mention the signs you’ve noticed and that you care about them
    • if you're concerned, ask them if they're thinking about suicide
    • listen supportively
  • Find the right support
    • be aware of local support options, and how to connect someone to them
    • explain that you will need to bring in some help to keep them safe
    • ask if they have a trusted contact they’d like any help with getting in touch with
    • someone (ideally a member of staff/guardian) should stay with them until professional help arrives
  • Be realistic about your limits
    • you can help by simply listening and responding – but it is important not to take it all on yourself
    • be clear about your limitations and let someone know if there are areas you find distressing to hear or talk about

Training

Suicide awareness: online training in having conversations

This online training has been created by Zero Suicide Alliance, an NHS charity hosted by Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust. It takes approximately 20-25 minutes to complete.

You may find the subject matter of this training upsetting, particularly if you have lost someone to suicide. You may wish to have someone nearby while doing the training. If you are a student, support is available.