Chooselife
The national strategy and action plan to prevent suicide in Scotland
Worried about someone?
If you are worried that someone is suicidal, ask them.
Most people thinking about suicide will try to let someone know. The key to helping is watching out for warning signs, inviting the person to talk about their feelings and listening carefully to what they have to say. These are the first steps in developing a sense of hope and can help prevent the immediate risk of suicide.
Someone you know may be at risk of suicide if they:
- talk about wanting to die or not being able to find a way out of a difficult situation
- have been through stressful life events and don't seem to be coping
- start giving away possessions
- start putting things in order e.g. arranging wills, pet care or childcare
- show marked changes in behaviour, appearance or mood
- appear distracted, sad, distant or lacking in concentration
- are misusing drugs and/or alcohol.
Also watch out for sudden calmness or uplift in mood. This can sometimes be because having decided to attempt suicide, the person feels relieved that they have found a solution to their problems, no matter how drastic this may be.
You can help:
- Let them talk about their feelings
- Listen to what they have to say and show that you care
- Ask if they are thinking about suicide
The Art of Conversation – a guide to talking, listening and reducing stigma
Our guide gives advice and tips on spotting suicidal signs, striking up difficult conversations around suicide and listening effectively.
Getting further help
Encourage the person to make an appointment with their GP, or to call one of the helplines below. You can even call them yourself to talk things through – dealing with suicide can be difficult.
- Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87 (24 hours at weekends, Fri–Mon 6pm–6am and Mon–Thurs 6pm–2am)
- Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90 (24 hours, 7 days a week)
