Worried about someone else? What you can do
Supporting someone who's struggling is one of the hardest things there is — and you don't have to figure it out alone or get it perfect. You can't force an adult to get help, but there is a lot you can do, and there are people you can call for guidance even if the person isn't ready.
Step by step
- 1
Reach out and listen
Ask how they're doing, gently and without judgment. You don't need the perfect words — 'I've noticed you seem down, and I care' is enough. Listen more than you advise. Asking directly about suicide does not plant the idea; it gives them permission to be honest.
- 2
Get guidance for yourself
You can call 811 or 988 for advice on how to help someone else — you don't have to be the person in crisis to reach out. They can talk through what to say and what options exist.
- 3
Point them to help, gently
Offer to sit with them while they call, or to help find a service on this site. Small, concrete offers ('want me to look up who to call?') are easier to accept than big ones.
- 4
Know the emergency line
If they're in immediate danger — talking about ending their life with a plan, or unable to stay safe — call 911, or 988. You can call on someone else's behalf, and staying with them matters.
They’ll ask
- What you've noticed, and how worried you are
- Whether the person is in immediate danger right now
- What support the person already has
They won’t
- Require the struggling person to be the one who calls
- Force an unwilling adult into treatment, except in specific legal, safety-based situations
- Expect you to have all the answers
Common questions
Can I make someone get help?+
You generally can't force an adult into treatment — but you can listen, encourage, help them find services, and call 811 or 988 for guidance. In situations of immediate danger, call 911.
Will asking about suicide make it worse?+
No. Research consistently shows that asking directly does not increase risk — it often brings relief and opens the door to help.
How do I cope with the worry myself?+
Supporting someone is draining, and you're allowed to get your own support — 811, a counsellor, or a caregiver line. You can't pour from an empty cup.
If you’re in immediate danger, call 911. This page describes a typical experience and may vary slightly by location.