I'm worried about someone else

If you're worried about someone, it can be hard to know what signs to look for or how best to help. This page offers information and resources to support you, but it shouldn't replace professional advice or emergency assistance.

If someone has seriously injured themselves, or their life is at immediate risk, call 999 and ask for an ambulance. Be prepared to provide their location. You can do this whether you're with them in person or not.

If they need urgent mental health support but there's no immediate danger, call NHS 111 and select the mental health option.

Things you may notice

There isn't always an obvious sign that someone is having suicidal thoughts, however there may be changes in what they say, how they feel, or how they behave.

People experiencing suicidal thoughts may not always tell others how they're feeling. Understanding some of the common warning signs can help you identify when someone may need support.

Some warning signs may include:

  • Withdrawing from family, friends, or social activities
  • Talking about feeling trapped, hopeless, worthless, or like a burden to others
  • Increasing their use of alcohol or drugs
  • Taking unusual risks or behaving recklessly
  • Appearing persistently low, anxious, angry, distressed, or overwhelmed
  • Changes in sleep patterns, such as sleeping much more or less than usual
  • Giving away possessions, putting affairs in order, or saying goodbye in an unusual way
  • Talking about death, suicide, or wanting to end their life, whether directly or indirectly
  • Sudden or unexpected changes in mood or behaviour, particularly after a period of distress

Recognising these signs can help, but they're not always present. If you're worried about someone it's important to trust your instincts and reach out. You should never blame yourself if you didn't recognise that someone was struggling.

You don't need to see these signs or be certain that someone is suicidal before checking in with them. If you're worried, it's okay to ask them directly

Start the conversation

You don't need to be a mental health professional to support someone. Taking the time to listen, showing you care, and asking directly about suicide if you're worried can help someone feel less alone. Remember that supporting someone can be emotionally challenging, and it's important to seek support for yourself too.

Explore the ‘Pick up the phone you’re not alone’ Z-card for practical advice, confidential support contacts, and information on where to get help if you’re struggling or worried about someone else. Use this resource to help the person access professional support and identify the most appropriate services for their needs.

If you’re worried that someone may be thinking about suicide, it’s okay to ask them directly: “Are you having thoughts of suicide?” Asking about suicide doesn't put the idea in their head. It can give them the opportunity to talk openly about how they're feeling.

You don’t need to have all the answers. Listening, taking them seriously and helping them connect with support can make a difference. Where possible, help them take the next step, such as contacting NHS 111, reaching out to someone they trust, or looking at their safety plan together.

Where to find help and support

If you're concerned about someone, there are a range of resources available to help you recognise the signs of suicide, start supportive conversations, and access professional advice and support.