[Fiona]

Some useful bits about talking/chatting with someone who is suicidal:

# Express your concern and ask if they are thinking about suicide
# Don't give up if they're reluctant to talk, let them know you are there to listen
# Ask how long they have felt this way
# Ask if they have thought about how they would do it (not asking for details of a plan)
# Listen
# Don't act shocked or try to change the subject
# Encourage them to tell you how they feel
# Hear them out, don't jump to conclusions or make judgements
# Try to understand how they feel without offering simple solutions Respond
# Be direct, open and honest
# Let them know you care and that they are not alone
# Help them to understand that suicidal feelings pass and depression can be treated

Fiona