Suicide Prevention Awareness Month: What to Say When Someone Is Struggling

When someone you care about tells you they’re struggling, it can be hard to know what to say. You may worry about saying the wrong thing, making the situation worse, or not knowing how to help.

You don't need to have all the answers. Often, one of the most helpful things you can do is simply listen, take them seriously, and remind them that they don't have to go through it alone.

Start by Listening

When someone opens up about their mental health, try to give them your full attention. You don't have to immediately offer advice or find a solution.

Instead, let them talk.

You can say:

• “I'm really glad you told me.”

• “I'm here to listen.”

• “That sounds really difficult.”

• “You don't have to go through this alone.”

• “Thank you for trusting me enough to tell me.”

Sometimes, feeling heard and understood can be an important first step toward getting additional support.

Avoid Trying to Fix Everything

It's natural to want to make someone feel better, especially when you care about them. But statements like “Just try to think positively,” “Things could be worse,” or “You have so much to be grateful for” can unintentionally make someone feel dismissed.

Instead of immediately looking for a solution, focus on understanding what they're experiencing.

Try asking:

“What has been feeling hardest lately?”

or

“What do you think would be most helpful right now?”

You may be surprised by how much simply being present can help.

Take Them Seriously

If someone tells you they're feeling hopeless, overwhelmed, or like they don't want to be here anymore, don't assume they're exaggerating or just having a bad day.

Listen without judgment and take what they're saying seriously.

If you're concerned that someone may be thinking about suicide, it's okay to ask directly:

“Are you thinking about suicide?”

Asking the question does not put the idea in someone's head. It can create an opportunity for them to be honest about what they're experiencing and allow you to help connect them with appropriate support.

If they say yes, or you believe they may be in immediate danger, stay with them if you can and seek immediate professional or emergency support. In the U.S., you can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Encourage Professional Support

Being there for someone doesn't mean you have to become their therapist or solve everything yourself.

If someone is struggling, you can gently encourage them to connect with a mental health professional.

You might say:

“Would you be open to talking to someone about what you're going through?”

or

“I'd be happy to help you find someone to talk to if that feels overwhelming.”

Offering to help them take that first step—whether that's finding a therapist, making an appointment, or simply researching options together—can make reaching out feel more manageable.

Remember: You Don't Have to Have the Perfect Words

There isn't a perfect thing to say when someone is struggling.

What matters most is showing them that you care, listening without judgment, and helping them connect with support when they need it.

You don't have to fix their pain. You can simply remind them that they don't have to face it alone.

If You or Someone You Know Needs Support

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis or having thoughts of suicide, help is available. In the United States, call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If there is immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

For ongoing mental health support, connecting with a qualified mental health professional can be an important step.

Reaching out is not a sign of weakness. Sometimes, it's the first step toward feeling better.