IN YOUR CORNER
Be in his corner.
You don’t need to have the answers. Start with what you’ve noticed, make room to listen, and help him find backup.
Ask directly: “Are you thinking about suicide?” If there’s immediate danger, call 911. Stay with him or on the phone if you can do so safely. You can call 988 about a friend.
Notice a change. Say it kindly.
Choose a private moment. Talk about a specific change you’ve noticed instead of guessing what it means.
Make it clear you care.
Offer something concrete: a walk, food, or time together. Let him know he doesn’t have to earn your attention.
Listen before trying to fix it.
Give him time. Ask what would help. Avoid comparisons, lectures, and rushing to a solution.
Bring in backup.
You can care without doing this alone. Help him contact a counselor, doctor, or crisis service. If his safety is at risk, don’t promise secrecy.
Check back in.
Agree on a time to talk again. Keep showing up, and get support for yourself too.
PRACTICE THE CONVERSATION
He says: “I’m just a burden.”
Which reply makes space for him to talk?
Learn to be there.
This approach draws on Be There’s focus on noticing, caring, listening, boundaries, and connection to help. Their free course goes deeper.
Take the official Be There Certificate
Created by Jack.org in partnership with Born This Way Foundation. Five For Fighting is independent and does not award their certificate or claim affiliation.
Suicide-specific guidance: National Institute of Mental Health and 988 Lifeline.