How to talk to someone contemplating Suicide

Things NOT to say to someone suicidal: 

1) Don't have such thoughts/ don't think about it. Distract yourself.  

Why not? SUICIDAL THOUGHTS ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF UNDERLYING ISSUES. RECOGNIZE THE THOUGHTS THAT CAUSES THIS SYMPTOM.

2) We've all gone through it. 

Why not?YOU UNDERESTIMATE THE INTENSITY OF WHAT THEY ARE GOING THROUGH. THEY FEEL UNHEARD AND NOT UNDERSTOOD.

3) Just move on from these thoughts/ think of better things. 

Why not? YOU'RE ASKING THEM TO SUPPRESS THEIR EMOTIONS. THIS WILL HARM THEM FURTHER. 

4) Suicide is never an option.

Why not? FOR YOU, YEAH! BUT FOR THEM IT SEEMS LIKE THE ONLY WAY OUT. 

5) But why? You have everything/ You have no reason.

 Why not? EXTERNAL AND INTERNAL "EVERYTHING" IS VERY DIFFERENT. 

6)You know what I went through...

Why not?DO NOT MAKE THIS ABOUT YOU. ITS ABOUT THEM AND NOT YOU. 

7) It's just a phase.

Why not? IT'S NOT JUST A PHASE. ITS A SERIOUS PROBLEM. PLEASE GUIDE THEM TO SEEK HELP.

Things to say/do:

1) Talk to them with compassion and empathy. 

2) Really listen.

3) Apologize! A heartfelt apology for not understanding earlier or not being there earlier. If you are part of the problem, do NOT justify your actions.

4) Make them feel loved, valued and needed.

5) Assure them you're going to be with them through it all. 

6) MOST IMPORTANTLY: Ask them to immediately seek professional help and make sure they get it. 

Please don't ask them to speak to their family or friends. Chances are they won't understand and will make it worse. 

Therapy is the FIRST option. Not the last. 

Do not take mental health for granted. It's dangerous to assume that things will be alright and the person confessing is not serious and won't take that step.