Here is a list of things I stole from Dawson McCallister on how to help a suicidal friend. Suicide is quite common amongst people with Aspergers Syndrome likely due to the Social Awkwardness that accompanies Aspergers Syndrome. Its important to be there for those that are suicidal, and many people say they don’t know how to be there. Well here is a good list.
- Get involved. Be available. Show interest and support
- Don’t be afraid to talk with them about suicide. Talking about it does not make it worse, but better. Be direct. Talk openly and freely about suicide
- Ask if he/she is thinking about suicide
- Ask if they have a plan. If so, take them seriously and move quickly to get help. Remove anything that would help them carry out their plan – guns, drugs, alcohol, knives, etc.
- Don’t bait the suicidal. Don’t say, “I think you’re just bluffing. I don’t believe you.”
- Be willing to listen. Be non-judgmental. Don’t lecture
- Don’t ask “why.” This encourages defensiveness
- Don’t act shocked
- Don’t be sworn to secrecy. Get support
- Offer hope that alternatives are available
- Please make sure you take any threat of suicide seriously. Of all the people who have committed suicide, 80% have given some kind of warning.
- A person who you feel is “high risk” for suicide should never be left alone, if even for a moment. Keep talking to that person, and stay with him or her.
- You could very well be that voice of hope to someone you love. Most times a suicidal person needs someone close to them to be a voice of hope.
From my own personal experience with suicide, you should never leave someone who is actively suicidal feeling alone. Call them frequently, let them know you’re available to help them. Listen to them, be there for them, help them through the situation that’s driving them into depression, and let them know you care. Also be careful not to treat them too differently then you would other friends as this can make your friendship appear fake. If your inviting all your other friends to hang out, invite them too – just because there depressed does not mean there not your friend.
How else would you help a friend who is suicidal?
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