Helping Someone Recover
It is possible to help someone who is having suicidal thoughts. When a person is thinking about suicide, they are ambivalent. Despite the suicidal thoughts, a part of them still wants to live, and that’s the part that keeps them going. As a friend or family member, you can play an integral role in their recovery by nurturing the part that wants to live.
Keep in mind that if you need help dealing with the situation, you can contact a suicide.ca counsellor at any time.
Identifying protective factors
Protective factors are things that help people when they are unwell. Understanding what will help a person who’s thinking about suicide is key to supporting them.
Here are some examples of protective factors:
- Being in contact with friends and family
- Having reasons to live
- Doing things that make us feel good
- Having plans for the future
- Taking care of basic needs (eating, sleeping, taking medication as prescribed, etc.)
Adopting a caring attitude
Here are some attitudes that can help support a person who is thinking about suicide.
Learn to recognize what is helpful for the person who is thinking about suicide
When a person is having suicidal thoughts, they may lose sight of the little things they do each day to take care of themselves. It’s often helpful to pay attention to these things and encourage them. Here are some examples of what you can say to help :
Encourage the person to adopt behaviours that make them feel good
When the person has identified things they can do that are helpful, encourage the person to make them part of their life. For example:
- Tell the person you believe in them
- Congratulate them when they achieve their goals
- Help them set more achievable goals
Here are some things you can say to encourage the person:
