How to Talk About Suicide: Prevention Tips, Warning Signs, and Support Strategies

Conversations about suicide are hard, but they can also be life-saving. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, hosts Bridget and Terry continue their series with Dr. Barbara Moser, chair of Prevent Suicide Greater Milwaukee, focusing on how to talk about suicide and what to do when someone is in crisis.

Listeners will learn how to recognize warning signs of suicidal thoughts, how to ask directly and compassionately, and the steps to take if someone says they are suicidal. From reducing access to lethal means, to knowing when to call 911, to simply staying present with someone in pain, this conversation offers both practical tools and hope.

If you’ve ever wondered how to support someone struggling with suicidal thoughts, this episode gives you the knowledge and courage to take action.

Link to Suicide Prevention Lifeline resource: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/how-we-can-all-prevent-suicide/

Primary Topics Covered

• Why suicide prevention requires open, honest conversations
• The importance of asking directly about suicidal thoughts
• Risk factors and warning signs of suicide
• How to respond if someone says they are suicidal
• Reducing access to lethal means as a key prevention strategy
• When to call 911 or seek emergency help
• The role of compassion, presence, and ongoing check-ins
• Crisis resources everyone should know

Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction to the episode and series
 01:14 - Suicide risk factors explained
 03:16 - Why asking directly about suicide reduces risk
 04:00 - How to respond when someone says they have suicidal thoughts
 05:18 - Assessing suicide risk: plan, means, and intent
 06:30 - Gender differences in suicide attempts and deaths
 07:02 - Removing lethal means to increase safety
 08:20 - National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and crisis text line
 09:19 - Why you should not leave a suicidal person alone
 10:12 - When to call 911 or go to the emergency room
 12:12 - The acute suicide crisis period and possibility of recovery
 13:01 - Why every cry for help should be taken seriously
 13:57 - Never promising secrecy when discussing suicide
 14:18 - Trusting instincts and staying present with loved ones
 15:26 - Final reflections and looking ahead in the series

Explore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.com
Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/
Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/