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Recognising risks to suicide

People of all ages can experience suicidal thoughts and take action to end their lives.

Our Trust is committed to reducing the loss of life by suicide. The information below has been developed alongside people with lived experience. It considers why someone might be thinking about suicide and gives guidance on how you can support them.

Supporting someone who feels suicidal can feel hard on carers and families. It is important to look after yourself too.

You can also download the suicide prevention support for families and carers booklet in full.

Myths about suicide

Common myths include:

  • When someone is suicidal, there is nothing you can do
  • People who threaten suicide are attention seeking
  • Talking to someone about suicide will increase the risk
  • Only people with mental disorders are suicidal

Please remember – anyone can be suicidal at any given time. It can be difficult to talk about and people don’t always know who to talk to.

In order to preserve life and prevent loss we encourage everyone to ask about suicidal thinking with the person you are caring for or supporting.

Asking someone if they are feeling suicidal does not increase the likelihood of them acting on the thoughts or make the situation worse.

What might influence suicidal thoughts

Although there is not an exhaustive list, some factors that may increase the risk of suicide include:

  • Social isolation/loneliness
  • Previous suicide attempts
  • History of self-harm/self-injury
  • Social deprivation
  • Diagnosed mental health condition
  • Loss of job
  • Change in role or purpose
  • Sudden loss or trauma
  • Increased life pressures
  • Relationship breakdown
  • Abusive or violent relationship
  • Addiction (can include gambling, alcohol, drugs)
  • Increased/out of the norm use of alcohol or substance
  • Financial challenges
  • Bereavement
  • Suicide bereavement
  • Physical illness
  • Long-term condition or disability

Warning signs to look out for

Look out for any small changes in behaviour and follow your instincts. Warning signs can include:

  • Struggling at work/school/college
  • Loss of motivation
  • Withdrawal
  • Helplessness or hopelessness
  • Increasing irritability or sudden rage or anger
  • Anxiety
  • Having trouble sleeping
  • Changes to eating habits
  • Loss of interest in activities
  • Changes in daily activities
  • Internet searches
  • Excessive time spent online
  • Sorting possessions

You may hear the person say things such as:

  • “It doesn’t matter anymore”
  • “I can’t go on like this”
  • “People would be better off without me”
  • “What’s the point?”

What you can do to help

It is important to take anyone who talks about feeling suicidal seriously. Explore what is going on.

Ask direct questions such as:

  • “Are you feeling suicidal?”
  • “Do you want to die?”
  • “Are you thinking of killing yourself?”
  • “Are you thinking of ending your life?”
  • “Do you have a plan?”

If they confirm they have a plan, disable the plan and remove access to means if possible, to keep them safe.

Remember to listen. Be patient and supportive.

Do not leave them alone if they are in crisis.

Ask questions such as:

  • “What or who can help?”
  • “What has helped you in the past?”

Try and establish whether they will go with you to their GP or other health professional; or whether you can help them to call someone while you’re present – this could be a health professional, family member or friend.

  • “Do you have a staying safe or safety plan?”

If they are under the care of South West Yorkshire Partnership Teaching NHS Foundation Trust you can ask for a copy of their staying safe plan from their healthcare professional.

There are also a range of apps and resources that can help you develop a safety plan with the person you are caring for including:

Helpful contacts and resources

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