How to Help

If you’re worried someone might be thinking about suicide, your care and presence can make a life-saving difference.

If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.

You can also Call or Text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or chat via 988lifeline.org.

​

Get involved: show interest & support

 

• Listen without judgment or criticism. Let them talk; don’t rush to fix.

• Let them know you care. “I’m here with you. You’re not alone.”

• Offer hope that alternatives are available. Help is real and effective.

• Take all threats seriously. Assume statements about self-harm are urgent.

• Ask about any current crisis. (“What’s happening right now?”)

• Make a plan to get professional help. Offer to call, text, or go with them.

• Share emergency numbers and resources. (See below.)

• Ask directly about suicidal thoughts. It’s okay to say, “Are you thinking about killing yourself?”

• Inform family members & friends who can help keep them safe.

• Never agree to keep suicidal thoughts secret. Safety comes first.

• Remove access to means of suicide (medications, weapons, sharp objects) when possible and safe.

​

What you can say

​

• “Thank you for telling me—this took courage.”

• “I’m here to listen. Let’s find help together.”

• “You matter to me. We can get through this step by step.”

​

What to avoid

 

• Minimizing (“It’s not that bad”), debating, giving ultimatums, or shaming.

• Promising secrecy about self-harm or suicide.

​

Get help now

 

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call/Text 988 or chat (24/7, free, confidential).

• In an emergency – Call 911 and request a Crisis Intervention Team if available.

• HopeNet of Carpinteria – Email hopenetofcarp@gmail.com for local information, presentations, or support. If you would like us to mail you informative cards regarding signs of suicide and how to help, please let us know! Specify: Spanish or English or both.

​