Supporting a loved one with suicidal thoughts comes with a different set of challenges compared to other forms of caregiving.
You don’t know where to start and you're afraid of saying the wrong thing.
We guide you in reflecting on your own beliefs so you can be intentional about your approach.
You’re not sure how you can help and you don’t know where to get guidance.
We teach you practical skills to provide ongoing care and support their safety.
You underestimate the toll offering emotional support can take on you.
We help you understand your role and prioritize your wellness so you can give your best.
“Through Suicide Is Different, I learned I was not alone and what I was experiencing was normal. They reminded me to take care of myself so I can be a suicide caregiver. This was exactly what I didn’t know I needed.”
- Kacie K.
Read more about Kacie's experience here
Get FREE access to our Suicide Caregiver Toolkit!
What’s Included: 20+ modules that cover Suicide First Aid and Self-Care Planning
Our Emergency Recommendations
If the person you are worried about is in imminent danger, you may need to request a wellness check for them. If you are unsure about the best next step, please call 988 or your local crisis line.
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Examples of someone being in imminent danger include, but are not limited to, when they are in the middle of a suicide attempt, in need of medical assistance, or heavily intoxicated while expressing suicidal thoughts. Contact a crisis service if you are unsure about the status of this person.
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When you request a wellness check, the police department will evaluate whether there is enough information for them to respond. Once that is determined, they will dispatch the necessary personnel (including police officers, psychiatric providers, fire department, etc. as needed) to check on the person you are concerned about.
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You can call 911 or the local police department where the person you are concerned about is located. Be prepared to provide a brief summary of your concerns as well as the person's physical location.
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If you feel uncertain about what to do, contact a crisis service to speak with a trained counselor about next steps.
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In some areas, crisis response teams may be available to respond to events related to suicide. Contact a crisis service to speak with a trained counselor and inquire about such options.
Contact a Crisis Service
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
24/7, free, confidential crisis line in the US. Call 988. Veterans, press 1. Spanish, press 2.
Crisis Text Line
24/7, free crisis support via text message. Text HOME to 741-741.
The Trevor Project
24/7, free crisis help for LGBTQ youth. Call 866-488-7386. Text START to 678-678. Chat on site.
Find a Helpline
Outside of the United States? Find your local crisis lines and support here.SID is not a substitute for clinical treatment or crisis intervention
If you are looking for emergency support, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. Suicide Is Different's content and products were developed by subject matter experts for educational purposes only and intended for use by adults. We encourage you to review our Resource Directory if you are looking for clinical services or supports outside of the US.
