[Serious]How would you respond to a friend or family member telling you they are suicidal?

I know what I would want to hear.

From my best friend, “sorry to hear that brother. I had no idea. You know I love you man. We’ve known each other since we were kids and, while it sucks to know you’re in pain, I just want to let you know it’s not going to change anything between us. And I don’t think less of you for it. It’s no joke and it will be the hard. Just do me a favor. Give me a call and a chance to help you before you do anything.”

From my family, “we’re here to help you all the way. I know it might feel hopeless and that you’re in pain. And I hope it isn’t too selfish of me to ask you to just keep taking it a day at a time. Even if you don’t see the point of if it becomes very difficult. Please give us a chance to help you before you do anything.”

From my other, “I love you. You’re my best friend and I just want you to be happy. I will always be there for you.”

  • Honestly for her to just let me be vulnerable. I’m burdened by my own idea of having to act strong and not be weak. To be someone I can open up to because it is tiring having to appear like I’ve got it all together all the time.
/r/AskReddit Thread