Start the Conversation
Breaking the Silence Starts with a Simple Conversation
As anxiety, depression, emotional distress, and overdose deaths continue to rise, it’s critical for people to have access to support during a crisis.
Suicide remains one of the leading causes of death in the United States.
Lines for Life and our community partners invite you to help us recognize Suicide Prevention Month by Starting the Conversation about suicide prevention.
In our schools, communities, and workplaces, you can help create safe spaces that encourage people to talk openly about their mental health, inspire hope, and promote mental wellness.
“I’m here for you. Are you thinking about hurting yourself?”
Suicide is preventable. Reach out to those around you and start real, non-judgmental conversations about mental health and suicide.
Who is Impacted by Suicide?
Mental health struggles and thoughts of suicide impact people of every age group, culture, and identity.
Our views and feelings about mental health and suicide differ by culture and identity, in addition to our personal beliefs and experiences. Each culture or community has its own history and norms about how to seek support and help for mental health issues, including suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
When it comes to suicide prevention and mental health support, one size does not fit all.
To prevent suicide and promote mental wellness for all, we must learn to incorporate cultural differences into the support we provide.
Read more about why we need culturally tailored support for suicide prevention.
How Can YOU Start the Conversation
Starting the Conversation is the first step to helping someone get the support they need. YOU can Start the Conversation in your own circles and help those around you get the care they need.
You can start the conversation by simply asking, “How are you really?” or sharing how you’ve been feeling lately.
Supportive and meaningful relationships help build resilience and well-being – a conversation with an understanding friend or loved one can often help heavy thoughts feel lighter. Identify a loved one you can lean on for support – or offer to be there for someone in your life.
5 Tips for Starting a Conversation
Being the one to start a conversation about suicide isn’t easy. It takes courage. Here are five tips to help you start a conversation with someone about suicide:
- Find a private setting: Talk in a quiet, comfortable place where you both feel safe.
- Be direct and caring: Ask how they are feeling and describe the reasons for your concern directly with words like: “I noticed you’re struggling—have you been thinking about hurting yourself?”
- Acknowledge and listen: Listen openly, actively, and without judgement. Show empathy and understanding with words like: “I’m here for you.”
- Offer to help: Reassure them they’re not alone and that mental wellness is possible. Help them locate and connect to services by calling the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
- Stay connected: Check in regularly, be patient, and continue offering your support.
Ask Questions that Aid the Conversation
When you’re concerned and want to ask someone if they’re thinking about suicide, be direct. Use phrases like:
- “I’ve been worried about you. Can we talk?”
- “Are you thinking about hurting yourself?”
- “I see you’re going through something. How can I support you?”
- “Are you having thoughts about suicide?”
- “I care about you. Do you want to talk about what’s going on?”
Once you’ve started the conversation, other questions may help someone explore what’s going on and identify the next step for getting the help they need:
- “How long have you been feeling this way?”
- “Do you feel like things have been hopeless?”
- “How are you managing everything that’s been happening?”
- “Is there anything I can do to support you?”
- “Have you thought about reaching out for help?”
Take Care of Your Own Mental Health
We know it may not always be easy or possible to Start the Conversation with those around you. If you have mental health concerns and aren’t sure who to reach out to, we’re here to help. Our crisis and emotional support helplines are available 24/7.
Get More Training on How to Help in a Crisis
Want to Start the Conversation about suicide, but not quite sure where to start?
We provide virtual and in-person training opportunities for anyone who wants to learn how to assess suicide risk and refer others to appropriate resources.
If you, your organization or community want to develop crisis intervention skills, learn more about our upcoming training.
Anyone can benefit from skills training and learn how to help others in crisis – you do not need to be a behavioral health professional.
See How Others Start the Conversation
Join us as we explore examples of our community partners, staff members, and leaders in suicide prevention who are taking the necessary steps to Start the Conversation and promote mental health for all.
Start the Conversation: Mike, Clinical Trainer
My first career was in the restaurant industry, managing restaurants and eventually managing theaters and event venues for a large chain of Oregon brewpubs. I had to leave because I drank too much, and I was like a kid in a candy store.Eventually, I became interested in the substance...
Start the Conversation: Angie, Lead Clinical Preceptor
I’ve always been passionate about supporting people when they might feel stigmatized or isolated.When I was growing up, my family struggled with poverty. Some of them turned to substances to cope and, even though they were around, I felt alone. The first funeral I ever went to...
You Call, We Answer: Cami, Events Coordinator
The ripple effects of substance abuse and suicide are quantifiable and immense. I know firsthand how difficult it is to lose a loved one to suicide. I’m a suicide loss survivor. My father struggled with extreme mental illness and died by suicide when I was just nine years old....
