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Spotting the warning signs
two cartoon persons that are looking away from each other
Sometimes it can be hard to tell if someone you know is struggling. Here are some signs to look for if you’re worried about someone close to you.
  • Struggling with focus, memory, or fatigue
  • Dealing with mood swings, especially anger
  • Isolating themselves
  • Taking unnecessary risks
  • Eating or sleeping too much
  • Drinking or smoking more than usual
  • Taking excess drugs, including over-the-counter options
  • Making jokes about suicide
  • Saying usual goodbyes or giving away things they care about
  • Acting like others would be happier without them
Many of these signs can only be spotted over time. If you’re concerned about someone but don’t know what they’re dealing with, you can always contact 988 and speak with a crisis worker. We’d be happy to talk through your thoughts.
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Suicide Prevention Playbook

This course was designed to help you feel prepared to help in a time of crisis, and well before. Every lesson takes 10 minutes or less and touches on topics ranging from “when to check on someone” to “what to do if someone is considering suicide”.

Once you’ve finished the course, we’ll send you a digital certificate. Over 25,000 people have completed one of our courses and qualified for a “Suicide Prevention Ambassador” certificate

Explore the playbook
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How to start the conversation
If someone you know is in need, don’t hesitate to speak to them. Just asking how your loved one is feeling will help them feel loved, supported, and seen.
Here’s some suggestions
for starting a conversation:

I’m worried about you. Can we talk about what you’re going through?

I care about you and want to listen. Can you tell me how you’ve been feeling lately?
I’ve noticed you’ve been struggling and wanted to ask. How are you really doing?

Hey, if something’s wrong, would you be willing tell me? If not me, then maybe someone else?

a sad person who is counselled by another person
Do’s

Be direct but warm

Asking clearly, “Are you thinking about suicide” gives them permission to be honest.

Talk somewhere private

Chatting somewhere they feel safe and starting with easy questions can help them be comfortable.

Listen more than talk

Letting them take the lead and listening without judgment helps build trust.

Agree with how they feel

Taking their feelings seriously without offering solutions shows how much you care.

Share facts, not interpretations

Mentioning the changes they’ve made, not labels or guesswork, helps ground you both.

Don'ts

Don’t minimize or compare

Saying phrases like “You have so much to live for” or “It could be worse” can feel dismissive, even if you mean well.

Don’t promise secrecy

Encouraging your loved one to talk to other people shows that you care and that you’re honest.

Don’t debate their feelings

Validating their emotional pain is more important than any logic or opinions you have.

Don’t wait for the ‘perfect moment’

Talking before an emergency happens will make them feel safer, not the opposite.

Don’t use stigmatizing language

Saying things like “committed suicide” or “failed attempt” can be scary for both you and them.

a cartoon person why is waving at a laptop
Connect them to help
We’re here to support the people you love. If you speak with someone and they ask for more help, you can always recommend they call 988. For both you and them, there’s always:
Someone to listen
Our 988 crisis workers are available online 24/7, for free, if someone you know wants an outside opinion or needs a quick chat.
Someplace to meet
If a face-to-face conversation would help, our crisis workers will be there for you or anyone you know.
Somewhere to go

There are many safe places in Utah where anyone you know can go for free, if they need a place to stay the night.

Learn more about these tips & tools
Ongoing ways to support
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Emotional emergencies aren’t fixed in a day, but small check-ins make that time go faster. If you have friends or family members who are recovering, showing some ongoing love can make all the difference.
  • After your first chat, check in after a few days. Just sending a text can help.
  • Keep it simple and brief. Small, constant reminders like “Hey, just wanted to remind you that I care” will make a difference.
  • Include anyone who’s struggling in your day-to-day activates. Keep doing everyday, normal things with them.
  • Help them connect with resources like 988, so they have extra support for when you’re not available.
Boundaries to have

And don’t forget to take care of yourself. Caring for your friends and family members can be demanding, especially if you’re also struggling. Like with oxygen masks on an airplane, protecting your own safety allows you to help others better.

  • Remember, you don’t need to be a therapist. You can care and listen, but you don’t have to carry someone’s crisis.
  • Watch for burnout in yourself. If you’re feeling emotionally numb or guilty, it might be time to step back.
  • Talk to someone if you feel like you’re holding in too much. Call a crisis worker at 988 or speak with someone you trust to help manage those feelings.
  • Set a few limits, like letting your struggling friends or family members know when you’re busy.
two persons talking with each other at the table
a person who is sitting at a table and talking with another person

And don’t forget to take care of yourself. Caring for your friends and family members can be demanding, especially if you’re also struggling. Like with oxygen masks on an airplane, protecting your own safety allows you to help others better.

  • Remember, you don’t need to be a therapist. You can care and listen, but you don’t have to carry someone’s crisis.
  • Watch for burnout in yourself. If you’re feeling emotionally numb or guilty, it might be time to step back.
  • Talk to someone if you feel like you’re holding in too much. Call a crisis worker at 988 or speak with someone you trust to help manage those feelings.
  • Set a few limits, like letting your struggling friends or family members know when you’re busy.

Helper testimonials

“The people who came were kind and helpful. I'm so grateful for this program. It's just the help we need when my teen has explosive outbursts.”

“My child was really struggling to the point of being suicidal. The 988 and SMR gave critical support at a very crucial time. I appreciate them so much.”
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