PowerPoint Slide
Talking to Someone Who May Be Suicidal
Talking about suicide can feel difficult, but open and compassionate conversations can save lives.
When someone shares suicidal thoughts, they need:
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Calm support
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Someone who will listen
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Someone who will take them seriously
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Help connecting to professional support
Slide – What TO Do
Ask Directly
Ask clear and caring questions.
Example:
“Are you thinking about suicide?”
Research shows that asking directly does not put the idea into someone’s head.
Listen Without Judgement
Let them talk.
Avoid interrupting or trying to fix the problem immediately.
Use supportive responses such as:
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“I'm really sorry you're going through this.”
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“I'm here with you.”
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“You don't have to face this alone.”
Validate Their Feelings
Acknowledging their pain can help them feel understood.
Example phrases:
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“That sounds incredibly difficult.”
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“I can see you're in a lot of pain.”
Help Keep Them Safe
If someone is in immediate danger:
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Stay with them if possible
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Remove dangerous objects if safe to do so
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Contact professional support
Get Professional Help
Encourage support from trained professionals.
Examples:
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988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
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Mental health professionals
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Emergency services
Slide – What NOT to Do
Do NOT Argue or Lecture
Avoid statements such as:
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“You have so much to live for.”
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“Things could be worse.”
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“Just think positive.”
These responses may make the person feel misunderstood or dismissed.
Do NOT Act Shocked or Judgemental
Strong reactions can cause someone to shut down or stop talking.
Try to stay calm and supportive.
Do NOT Promise Secrecy
If someone is in danger, it is important to seek help even if they ask you not to tell anyone.
Safety must always come first.
Do NOT Try to Solve Everything
Avoid rushing to give advice or solutions.
Your role is to:
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Listen
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Support
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Help them access professional care
Slide – Supporting People with Disabilities
People with disabilities or long-term mental health conditions may face additional challenges, including:
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Social isolation
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Chronic pain or health conditions
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Lack of accessible services
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Stigma or discrimination
This means conversations may require extra patience, understanding, and respect.
Important Principles
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Treat the person with dignity and respect
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Include them in decisions about their safety
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Validate their experiences
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Avoid blaming their disability or condition
Key Training Message
People often worry about saying the wrong thing.
But the most important things are simple:
✔ Listen
✔ Stay calm
✔ Take them seriously
✔ Help them find support
Where We Are Saving Progress
You have now built a strong part of Chapter 15 including:
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Myths vs Facts
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Emotional crisis explanation
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Warning signs (planned next)
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How to talk to someone who is suicidal
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Do's and Don'ts of supporting someone
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Disability-inclusive support guidance
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