How to Talk About Suicide: A Guide to Saving Lives

Benevolent Family Services
Sep 18, 2025
3 min read

Suicide can feel like a difficult topic to approach, but your willingness to talk openly can make a life-saving difference. Whether it’s a friend, family member, coworker, or neighbor, knowing how to start the conversation, what to say, and where to connect someone to help is crucial.

At Benevolent Family Services, we are committed to supporting individuals and communities in Hampton Roads and Richmond through crisis intervention, behavioral health services, and compassionate guidance.

Why Talking About Suicide Matters

Many people struggling with suicidal thoughts feel isolated, ashamed, or hopeless. Simply asking someone how they are, noticing changes in their behavior, and expressing concern can help them feel seen and supported. Research shows that talking openly about suicide does not increase risk, but ignoring warning signs can.

Recognizing Warning Signs

Before approaching a conversation, it helps to know what to look for:

Talking about wanting to die or feeling hopeless
Expressing being a burden to others
Withdrawing from social interactions or activities
Dramatic changes in behavior, mood, or sleep
Increased use of alcohol or drugs
Seeking access to lethal means

Even if a person shows only one or two signs, reaching out is important.

How to Start the Conversation

Be direct but gentle
- It’s okay to ask: “I’m worried about you. Have you been thinking about harming yourself?”
- Clear questions reduce stigma and let the person know it’s safe to talk.
Listen without judgment
- Give them space to speak openly.
- Reflect back what you hear: “That sounds incredibly painful. I’m glad you told me.”
Stay calm and present
- Even silence is okay. Your presence communicates care and safety.
Offer support and connection
- Help them connect with trained professionals or crisis resources.
- Offer practical help, like calling a hotline together or making an appointment.

What to Avoid

Minimizing their feelings: “It’s not that bad”
Giving simple solutions: “Just cheer up”
Promising secrecy if there’s immediate risk

Safety comes first. If someone is at imminent risk, it’s okay to involve authorities or crisis services even if they ask you not to.

Connecting Someone to Help

Immediate crisis resources:

Call or Text 988 – National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7)
Hampton Roads: Hampton-Newport News CSB 24/7 Crisis Line: (757) 788-0011 | Regional Crisis Mobile: (757) 656-7755
Richmond: RBHA Crisis Line: (804) 819-4100 | Team LLC Mobile Crisis: (804) 977-1365 | Turning Point Interventions Mobile Crisis: (434) 228-7372 / (434) 228-7526

Ongoing support:

Encourage therapy, behavioral health programs, or support groups.
Benevolent Family Services provides partial hospitalization (PHP), intensive outpatient program (IOP), mental health skill building, intensive in-home for children & adolescents, and community stabilization to help individuals stay safe and supported in their communities. Referrals can be made online: www.bfshelps.com/referral or, by calling our offices at: Hampton Roads (757) 755-3253 | Richmond (804) 206-3105.

Tips for Maintaining the Conversation

Check in regularly: Even a simple message can remind someone they are not alone.
Encourage small steps toward help: Accompany them to an appointment or provide contact information for support.
Take care of yourself: Supporting someone in crisis can be emotionally demanding—seek guidance or supervision if needed.

Final Thoughts

Talking about suicide can feel intimidating, but it saves lives. By noticing warning signs, approaching conversations with care, and connecting individuals to help, you become a vital part of their support network.

If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out immediately: Call/Text 988 – National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Hampton Roads: (757) 788-0011 | (757) 656-7755 Richmond: (804) 819-4100 | (804) 977-1365