When we talk about suicide prevention, many of us immediately think of reaching out to a hotline, finding a therapist, or offering support to someone in crisis. While these are vital steps, there are some lesser-known ways to help prevent suicide that often fly under the radar. These tips can be powerful tools in fostering emotional resilience and connection, which can be life-saving for someone struggling with suicidal thoughts.
1. Create a Safety Plan—Before It’s Needed
Most people associate safety plans with immediate crises, but they can be even more effective when made during calmer times. A safety plan outlines specific steps someone can take if they begin to feel overwhelmed by suicidal thoughts. It might include listing trusted people to call, safe spaces to go, and calming activities to engage in. Helping someone create a safety plan before they reach a crisis can give them a roadmap to navigate intense feelings and may make all the difference when things get tough.
2. Encourage “Micro-Connections”
It’s no secret that loneliness and isolation are big contributors to suicidal thoughts, but building new relationships or reigniting old ones can feel daunting. This is where the idea of “micro-connections” comes in. These are brief, meaningful moments of connection—like chatting with a barista, smiling at a neighbor, or sending a quick text to a friend. These small interactions don’t require deep emotional energy but can create a sense of belonging and significance, subtly reminding someone that they matter to the world around them.
3. Teach Emotional Labeling
One often-overlooked suicide prevention strategy is helping people learn to accurately label their emotions. When someone feels hopeless or overwhelmed, they may describe themselves as “numb” or “empty,” but underneath that numbness are often intense emotions like fear, shame, or sadness. Helping someone learn to identify and name these emotions gives them a better chance of understanding what they’re truly feeling, which is the first step in addressing it. Emotional labeling can also provide a sense of control, reminding someone that their feelings—no matter how intense—are not permanent and can be managed.
4. Use “Means Reduction”
Means reduction involves limiting access to lethal methods of suicide, like removing firearms from the home or ensuring that medications are stored safely. It might seem simple, but in moments of crisis, having fewer accessible means can give someone the crucial time they need to reconsider their actions and reach out for help. For those supporting someone who may be at risk, it’s worth gently suggesting that steps be taken to make their environment safer. It’s one of the most concrete, practical steps we can take to prevent a tragic outcome.
5. Promote Routine and Structure
When life feels chaotic and overwhelming, even the smallest tasks can seem impossible. Creating a daily routine—whether it’s as simple as a morning coffee ritual or a regular bedtime—can provide a sense of stability and control. Routine gives the brain something predictable to hold onto, which can make it easier for someone to cope when they feel like their emotions are spiraling. Encourage small, manageable steps that bring a sense of accomplishment and normalcy.
Understanding suicide prevention is about more than just knowing what to do in a crisis. It’s about creating environments where people feel seen, understood, and supported long before they reach a point of desperation. By incorporating these lesser-known tips into our daily lives, we can all contribute to a more connected, compassionate world.
