
If you believe someone may be suicidal, take action. If possible, talk directly with the person. The most important thing you can do is to listen carefully nonjudgmental. Talking about suicide can only decrease the likelihood that someone will act. It is very unlikely that to broach the subject with someone who does not think suicide will prompt him to do.
Find a safe place to talk with the person and give him all the time. Express your concern about her and assure her that you will keep your conversation confidential. Find out about recent events and encourage her to express her feelings freely. Do not minimize her feelings. Ask the person if they feel desperate enough to contemplate suicide. If she answers 'yes', ask her if she made a plan, and how and where will she commit suicide?
If the person says it is considering suicide, acknowledge your concern and fear, but do not react by saying: "You should not have such thoughts, things can not be that bad." Remember that the person you confided his deepest feelings, and although they can upset you, simply talking about the comfort you.
Ask if there is anything you can do. Tell them about resources available to him (family, friends, community agencies, crisis centers) for support, practical advice, counseling or treatment.
Formulate a plan with the person for the next few hours or days. Establish contact with her or his name. If possible, go with the person for help.
Tell the person what times you are available and then take good care of it. Also be sure to clarify your limits and try to make steps for it is always someone to talk by telephone at any hour of the day.
Ask her if others are aware of his suicidal feelings and who they are. Are there others who should know? Is the person willing to tell them? Unfortunately, this is not always handled tactfully. Confidentiality is important, but when life is at stake, any request for confidentiality must be ignored.
Keep in touch with the person to know how she is doing. Praise her for having the courage to trust you and continue to live and fight.