How do I help a friend who wants to die?
Dost suicide ki baat kar raha hai, kaise madad karein?
Take it seriously, stay with them, and ask directly. Asking "are you thinking about ending your life?" does not put the idea in their head; it opens the door. You do not have to fix it alone; your job is to help them reach help.
What to do now
- 1.Stay with them, or keep talking if you are not together.
- 2.Ask calmly and directly whether they are thinking about suicide. Listen without arguing or lecturing.
- 3.Do not promise to keep it secret if their life is at risk.
- 4.Help them reach help today: a trusted adult, a doctor, or Tele-MANAS on 14416 (free, 24/7). Offer to call with them. If there is immediate danger, call 112.
What also helps
- Checking in again the next day
- Telling one trusted adult so you are not carrying it alone
- Looking after your own sleep and feelings; this is heavy
When to get more help
If they have a plan, the means, or have already hurt themselves, call 112 now and stay with them.
In danger right now? Call 112 or Tele-MANAS on 14416 (free, 24/7).
want to talk it through?
Kindred will go through this with you, one step at a time, in English or Hinglish. Free, private, on WhatsApp.
Written by the Kindred team. This page is general information, not medical advice or a diagnosis.