What if asking about suicide could save a life?
Learn about how to ask someone you're worried about, 'are you thinking of suicide?'
Suicide is a topic that makes many of us nervous;
It can feel like the hardest thing to ask someone about
What if I say the wrong thing?
What if they say yes?
What if it gives them the idea?
But lots of people don’t realise...
If you’re worried about someone, asking them ‘are you thinking about suicide’ is the best way to prevent it from happening.
Introducing our latest ambassadors
Our campaign is led by six people who all have experience of asking about suicide and have found hope on their own journey.
Jon
Nine years ago, Jon made an attempt on his life. He's learned to support others, asking others if they are considering suicide.
Lindsey & Jenna
When Lindsey found Jenna in distress in a gym changing room she asked, 'are you thinking about suicide?' She was...
Noor
Noor arrived in Scotland from Jordan nine years ago to study. She lost her close friend to suicide two years ago.
Scott & Lynn
In 2018, Scott made a suicide attempt. Having found a way forward, Scott now talks openly fiancée Lynn about his feelings.
Three steps to asking about suicide
We know that asking someone if they are considering suicide is daunting, but it's the right thing to do.
Let's explain the steps you should follow to ask about suicide.
Each has a short animation with simple, practical advice.
Our ambassadors then talk about each stage, and their own experiences of asking someone if they are thinking about suicide.
If you are worried someone (or yourself) is at risk seek help now.
Step 01 | Ask directly
You should be kind and gentle, but being clear important. Ask the question directly, 'are you thinking about suicide'.
Step 02 | Listen & acknowledge
If someone does say they are thinking about suicide, remain calm. Never minimise how they are feeling, but more than anything please give them time.
Step 03 | Keep safe
It is important to think about keeping the person safe, but it's important you take care of yourself too.
Previous What if campaigns
Our public awareness campaign has been running for almost a year now. Find out what else we've been up to.
Watch the What if Podcast with Amy Irons
Amy knows what it's like to lose someone you love to suicide.
That's why she agreed to present our brand new What if Podcast.
Over four compelling episodes, Amy met a range of brilliant guests who will share their experience and insight.
You'll gain a better understanding of suicide, and how we can prevent it.
Meet our 'original' ambassadors
Seonaid, Ross, Clare and Laura either lost a loved one, made an attempt or planned to take their life.
They wrote a letter to a loved one or themselves and then had one of the most extraordinary conversations about suicide ever seen.
This led to an 8% increase in conversations about suicide.
Organisations supporting our campaign
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What if is a campaign from Suicide Prevention Scotland.
It’s been co-produced by people with lived and living experience of suicide, and follows the principles of Time Space Compassion.
Find local support in your area on our services directory.