Module 3 - Talking About Suicide - A Practical Guide
Transcript
Module 3: Talking About Suicide – A Practical Guide
Step 2: Ask
1. Once you’re prepared for the conversation, the next step is to ask—to open space for the person to talk about their distress, including possible suicidal thoughts or intentions.
2. When we recognize someone is struggling, the goal isn’t to solve their problems or offer advice. Instead, it’s to encourage them to talk. Ask questions in a way that feels curious, compassionate, and non-judgmental. This helps build trust, especially if you don’t know the person well. If you do, it can deepen your connection. Talking about deep distress, and especially suicidal thoughts, can be difficult for both, you and the person thinking of suicide. They may try to avoid the topic or cut the conversation short. Still, try to gently persist. Your openness may help them feel safe enough to talk, release some emotional pressure, and even gain insight into their own thoughts. Ask open-ended questions in the present tense to keep the focus on their current experience. And don’t be afraid of silence—it gives the person space to think and reflect.
3. There are different ways to ask about suicidal thoughts. You might take a gentler approach by asking: “Do you ever wish you could just fall asleep and not wake up?” Or you might be more direct: “Are you thinking about suicide?” You can also take a middle path, depending on the context. Use words that feel natural to you, as this helps you sound genuine and caring. Don’t avoid the word “suicide.” Saying it won’t put the idea in someone’s head—but it can show them that you’re truly listening and open to hearing the truth. What matters most is that you ask the question—don’t let fear or uncertainty hold you back. The way you phrase it can be refined, but the act of asking is what truly counts.
4. Take a moment to think: What questions would feel easiest for you to ask someone you know? We encourage you to pause the video now, write down a few examples, and reflect on how you would phrase them in your own voice
5. Also consider: What emotions might you feel while asking these questions? You might experience: Fear, Sadness, Anger, Helplessness, Insecurity, Guilt, Relief, Panic, Or something else Acknowledging your own feelings is part of the process—and it can help you stay grounded and supportive during the conversation..