In immediate danger? Call 999NHS 111 for urgent mental healthSamaritans: 116 123(free, 24/7)

Worried About Someone?

Trust your instinct. If something feels wrong, it probably is. You do not need to be a professional to help someone stay alive.

Not sure how to start the conversation?

Answer a few questions about your situation and the person you are worried about. We will give you a gentle, practical way in — what to say, what to avoid, and how to follow up without overreaching.

Use the Reach Out tool

Warning signs to look for

Giving possessions away

Saying goodbye in unusual ways

Sudden calm after a period of distress

Talking about being a burden

Increased drinking or drug use

Withdrawing from friends and family

Rage, shame or deep hopelessness

Searching for methods or making plans

What to say

"I'm glad you told me."

"Are you thinking about suicide?"

"You are not a burden to me."

"I'm staying with you while we get support."

What not to say

"Man up."

"Others have it worse."

"You're being selfish."

"You wouldn't really do it."

What to do right now

1

Stay with them. Do not leave them alone.

2

Ask directly: "Are you thinking about suicide?" This does not put the idea in their head. It opens the door.

3

Listen without judgement. You do not need to fix it. Just be there.

4

Help them contact a crisis service. Call together if needed.

5

Remove anything they could use to hurt themselves if you can do so safely.

6

Follow up tomorrow. And the day after. Consistency saves lives.

Send them the Pressure Gauge

If he will not talk about how he is, he might still move a few sliders. It takes two minutes, and sharing the result can be easier than finding the words. Send him the link.

Get the link to send

If they are in immediate danger, call 999 now.

Call 999Full crisis support
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