Need help now?
Call or text 988 (U.S. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline). If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 911.
988 Resources
For families & friends
You don’t have to say the perfect thing. Focus on connection and practical safety steps that reduce access to lethal means during tough stretches.
Conversation starters (nonjudgmental)
- “I care about you. Can we make your space safer while you’re going through this?”
- “Would you be willing to lock up medications and anything that could be used to hurt yourself—just for now?”
- “If there are firearms around, can we temporarily make access harder until this wave passes?”
Make a simple plan
- Pick 1–2 safety actions for today.
- Choose who will help (a friend, family member, clinician).
- Decide when you’ll reassess (often 7 days is a good start).
If they refuse
- Stay calm and keep the connection.
- Offer smaller steps (lockbox, moving items, holding keys temporarily).
- If you believe there is immediate danger, contact emergency services.