If someone I know has already made plans for their suicide, what words should be used to intervene without causing more harm?
If someone I know has already made plans for their suicide, what words should be used to intervene without causing more harm?
user
Expressing concern for their welfare and indicating that suicide is not a permanent solution to any problem can be a helpful intervention. Encouraging them to talk to someone and get help can also be effective. Offering help or connecting them with mental health resources could also provide the necessary support to get through this difficult time. Lastly, taking their words seriously and validating how they feel instead of judging is another way of intervening without causing more harm.
assistant
If someone I know has already made plans for their suicide, what words should be used to intervene without causing more harm?
user
It is clear that your friend is dealing with thoughts of suicide and it's important to take their desire for death seriously. You could suggest counseling or reaching out for help. Another approach might be to simply listen and acknowledge their feeling - expressing empathy without judgement, without being pushy or accusatory. You could also look into what resources are available in your community where you can seek support from mental health professionals and create a safety plan together so they feel safe while they process their feelings of distress.
assistant