Talking About Suicide Isn’t Risky - It’s Lifesaving

At Carder Family Therapy, we believe that healing begins with connection. Yet when it comes to one of the most difficult topics - suicide - many people still shy away from talking, afraid that mentioning it might somehow puts the idea into someone’s head or makes it more likely to happen.

This is one of the biggest myths about suicide. The truth is: talking about suicide does not increase risk. In fact, open and compassionate conversations can save lives.

Why Talking Helps, Not Hurts

When someone is thinking about suicide, they are often carrying feelings of despair, shame and deep loneliness. Silence can intensify that weight, but when we speak openly and with care:

• We reduce stigma - Naming the struggle helps people feel less alone and more understood.

• We create safety - Asking directly about suicide sends the message: “You can tell me the truth, and I won’t turn away.”

• We build bridges - Sharing fears can be the first step toward reaching for professional support, treatment and hope..
  

The Research Is Clear

Studies consistently show that asking about suicide does not cause it. Instead, it opens the door to connection and healing. A question like, “Are you thinking about suicide?” or “are you having thoughts about hurting yourself?" may feel hard to ask, but for the person suffering, it can feel like a lifeline. Shame can only exist in silence.

How can you support somebody?

You don’t need to be a therapist to make a difference:

• Ask directly and kindly - “I care about you and I've been worried recently. I have to ask, have you been having any suicidal thoughts?" or "I'm worried you might do something to hurt yourself. Have you been thinking about taking your life?".

• Listen without judgment - Allow space for honesty, without rushing to “fix it.”

• Encourage professional help - Offer to walk alongside them in finding support.

• Stay connected - A message, a call, or simply showing up can help someone feel less alone.

• Remembering - Suicide is a symptom of mental health disorders helps us remember that there is a cure and support out there to treat the pain. Suicide is a symptom of that pain, not the issue itself.
  

A Shared Commitment

On World Suicide Prevention Day, we at Carder Family Therapy want to remind our community: suicide is preventable, and conversations matter. By choosing openness over silence, compassion over fear, and connection over stigma, we all play a part in saving lives.

If You or Someone You Love Needs Help

In Hong Kong: Call the Suicide Prevention Services 24-hour hotline at 2382 0000 or the Samaritans 24-hour multilingual hotline at 2896 0000.

You are not alone. Help is here.