Suicidal thoughts

Hangouts I want to help
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My friend is in risk of suicidal, he’s always tell me had suicidal thoughts, dying and looking for a way to die (said found a very tall building to jump) so many times while we chat, because he really had a series of tough time yet now which cannot be exposed, how can I help him

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Hi @Nicko,

Thank you for sharing your concern about your friend. It sounds like he is in a very serious situation, and it’s clear that you care deeply about his well-being. Given the seriousness of his statements about wanting to die and having found a tall building to jump from, it’s crucial to get professional help involved as soon as possible. Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Stay Connected: Keep in regular contact with your friend. Let him know you’re there for him and that he’s not alone. Sometimes, just knowing someone cares can provide a bit of relief. Ask your friend to keep you updated on their whereabouts.
  2. Encourage Transparency: If your friend feels comfortable, encourage him to share what’s been happening that’s making him feel this way. Understanding more about his situation can help you both figure out the best way to get support. At this stage, it’s important to inform his family members if you know them well.
  3. Immediate Crisis Resources: If your friend is in immediate danger, try to find out his location and what he’s wearing. Keep him on the line all the time and go to the location if you can to ensure his safety. If you’re unable to ensure his safety, continue to stay on the line and get help to call the authorities for immediate assistance and provide as many details as possible about his location and appearance.
  4. Encourage Professional Help: Suggest that your friend speak with a mental health professional like a counselor, therapist, or psychiatrist. Sometimes, hearing this from a trusted friend can make a big difference.
  5. Crisis Hotlines: Encourage him to contact a crisis hotline or emergency services. In Singapore, the Samaritans of Singapore (SOS) provides a 24-hour hotline (1800-221-4444) for anyone in crisis.
  6. Self-Care for You: Supporting a friend in crisis can be incredibly draining. Make sure you also take care of yourself by talking to someone you trust about how you’re feeling, whether that’s another friend, family member, or counselor.

Remember, while you’re doing your best to help your friend, it’s crucial to involve professionals who are trained to handle such situations. You’ve already shown great strength by being there for your friend and seeking advice on how to support him. We’re here to help, and we care about both you and your friend’s well-being. If you need more advice or just someone to talk to, please reach out again. Take care.

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Every time I met him, frequently heard saying word dying even off the topic and go heaven but I’ve noticed he scared to die as well, always had smile, know how to make other happy instantly. He’s a really nice man but can’t afford to seek a professional help as he’s already been to IMH which didn’t help him and only cost him money, doesn’t want to go anymore, I guess he’s also not ok with his parents as well as he’s always staying out late at night after work how can I help him change the way of living a life, I can’t afford to lose him

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Hi Nicko,

Thank you for sharing more about your friend’s situation. It’s clear you care deeply about him, and it’s understandable to be worried given what he’s been saying. Here are some things you can do to support him:

Stay Connected: Keep in regular contact with your friend. Let him know you’re there for him and that he’s not alone. Sometimes, just knowing someone cares can make a big difference.

Encourage Healthy Outlets: Suggest activities that he enjoys and that can help lift his spirits, such as exercise, hobbies, or creative pursuits. Finding positive outlets for his emotions can be very helpful.

Address the Fear of Professional Help: Acknowledge his past negative experiences with IMH and gently encourage him to consider other forms of professional help. Sometimes a different therapist or counselor can make a big difference. Offer to help him research affordable options or community resources.

Build a Support Network: If possible, try to involve other friends or family members who can offer additional support. The more people who are aware of his situation, the better.

Create a Safety Plan: Work with your friend to create a safety plan that includes coping strategies, emergency contacts, and steps to take if he feels overwhelmed.

Reassure and Validate: Remind your friend that it’s okay to feel the way he does and that seeking help is a sign of strength. Validate his feelings and let him know he’s not alone.

Additionally, encourage him to contact a crisis hotline if he needs immediate help. In Singapore, the Samaritans of Singapore (SOS) provides a 24-hour hotline at 1800-221-4444.

You’re doing an incredible job by being there for your friend and seeking advice on how to support him. Remember to take care of yourself as well. We’re here for you, and we care about both you and your friend’s well-being. If you need more advice or just someone to talk to, please reach out again.

Take care.

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