It could be hard to think of the right words to say when someone you care about appears to be struggling or tells you they want to end their life. By opening up to you, your friend, teammate, or loved one is indicating they want to communicate what they are experiencing and it gives you the opportunity to support them.
Having the Conversation:
• Find a Quiet, Comfortable, Private Location
• Know Resources & Have the Information Available: Counselors, Chaplains, Helplines
• Be Comfortable with Feeling Uncomfortable or Embarrassed
• Share What You’ve Observed and Your Concerns
• Ask Open-ended Questions
• Listen Actively
• Don’t Try and Solve the Problem
• Use the Word Suicide, not a Substitute
• Don’t be Judgmental or Critical
• Show Empathy and Concern
“The first time I talked with a Soldier about suicide, it was still difficult. I wasn’t sure how to start. I was concerned about my Soldier, but worried I wasn’t up to the task. What if he said yes? Could I say the right things or, make the situation worse? I knew I had to overcome my self-doubts and let him know he was not alone and that he had support.”
- Former Company Commander
Read the attached flyer to learn more about warning signs, additional support, and examples on how to communicate with someone in a time of need.
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