Treat this as an emergency
If someone is threatening or attempting to harm themselves or another person, has taken an overdose, is seriously injured, or cannot be kept safe where they are, contact emergency services or an appropriate crisis line in your area immediately. Family Circle is not an emergency or crisis response service.
Signs that professional help is needed soon
- A marked change in sleep, appetite, or ability to function that lasts more than a couple of weeks
- Withdrawal from work, school, or relationships
- Expressions of hopelessness, worthlessness, or being a burden
- Increasing alcohol or substance use
- Confusion, or beliefs and experiences that others do not share
- Distress that is escalating rather than easing
How to start the conversation
Choose a calm moment rather than the middle of an argument. Describe what you have noticed rather than what you have concluded: "You haven't been sleeping and you've stopped seeing your friends, and I'm worried about you." Ask what they think would help. Offer to make the call or come along, since the first step is often the hardest part.
Asking someone directly whether they are thinking about suicide does not plant the idea. It usually opens a conversation that person was already having alone.
Prepare before you need it
- Write down local emergency and crisis numbers and keep them where everyone can find them.
- Note the name and number of any current treating professional.
- Keep a short list of current medications and known conditions.
- Agree in advance who in the family will do what if a crisis happens.
What Family Circle can and cannot do
Family Circle provides family support, education, resources, and referrals. We do not diagnose, treat, prescribe, or provide emergency or crisis response. What we can do is help a family understand what they are facing, support the people around the person who is unwell, and point toward appropriate professional and community resources.