BE THE ONE TO
Show you care.

We get it. It can be awkward or hard to reach out to someone outside of your circle of friends. Especially when it’s something as personal as depression or suicide. But we’re all in this together. EVERY ONE OF US has the power to save a life.

If you know someone who may be in crisis or contemplating suicide, be the one to show you care.

If you need help, call, text or chat 988.

How Do I Know?

The easiest way to find out if someone is in crisis is to just ask.
But even someone who appears happy on the outside could be experiencing a crisis.

HERE ARE SOME SIGNS TO WATCH FOR:

  • Talk about suicide or dying
  • Looking for a way to kill themselves, like searching online or buying a gun
  • Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
  • Talking about being a burden to others
  • A lack of interest in activities
  • Dropping out of clubs or school
  • Letting grades slip or becoming indifferent
  • Withdrawal or aggression after a break-up or painful event
  • Disturbing posts on social media or a sudden shut down of accounts
  • Missing class
  • Concerning texts or tweets
  • Drawings or writings about death or dying

Learn More

How Can I Help?

If you see or hear signs that someone you know could be considering suicide, BE THE ONE to reach out. You don’t have to know what to say to say something. Here are some pointers to help start the conversation.

  • Just Ask

    It’s ok to ask, “Are you thinking about suicide?” Asking in this direct, non-judgemental manner can open the door for effective conversation.

  • Keep Them Safe

    If they are thinking about suicide, ask if they’ve thought about how they would do it. Then reach out to an adult to help separate them from the situation or anything they could use to hurt themselves.

  • Help Them Connect

    Rally support. Contact family, friends, teachers, coaches, church members and help them build a network. Share this number. 988

  • Listen

    Don’t dismiss or judge. You don’t have to offer advice. Just listen.

  • Be There

    Be there physically or by phone. Don’t commit to anything you’re not willing or able to accomplish. If you are unable to be physically present with someone with thoughts of suicide, talk with them to develop some ideas for others who might be able to help as well.

  • Follow Up

    Check in on a regular basis. Continue to show you care. Have a plan in place if you can’t reach them.

If you need help, call, text or chat 988.

How Should I
Reach Out?

If you notice someone who may be contemplating suicide, be the one to show you care. It doesn’t have to be much, but it just might be enough to save a life. Here are some ways to show you care.

  • Listen
  • Ask if they’re ok
  • Ask if they’re thinking about suicide
  • Invite them to hang out
  • Find them in the hallway
  • Share your concern with a parent, teacher, counselor or other trusted adult
  • Sit by them
  • Friend them on social media
  • Shoot them a text

Learn More