What to Do When a Loved One Talks About Suicide

This is frightening, but the most important thing is to take it seriously — always. Don't dismiss it with "you don't really mean that" or try to argue them out of it. Ask directly: "Are you thinking about hurting yourself?" — asking the question does not plant the idea; it opens the door. Listen without trying to fix. Don't leave them alone if you sense immediate risk. Help them connect to crisis support — a hotline, a therapist, or an emergency room. You are not their therapist, and you are not supposed to carry this alone. Your role is to be present and to help them reach professional help. That is enough.