How to Support Someone Who Is Having Suicidal Thoughts

Talking about suicide can feel frightening, and many people worry that bringing it up will "put the idea in someone's head." Research and clinical experience consistently show the opposite: asking someone directly and calmly whether they are thinking about suicide does not increase risk — it opens the door for them to be honest, often for the first time.

Warning signs can include talking about being a burden or having no reason to live, withdrawing from people and activities, giving away belongings, a sudden calm after a period of deep distress, and increased use of alcohol or other substances. If you notice these signs in someone you care about, ask directly: "Are you thinking about suicide?" Listen without judgement, take what they say seriously, and help them connect with professional support rather than trying to manage it alone.

If you are the one having these thoughts, please know you are not a burden for having them, and you do not have to carry them in silence — support genuinely helps, and things can change even when it does not feel that way right now.

If someone is in immediate danger, call for help or go to the nearest hospital. Lesotho does not currently have a dedicated national suicide helpline; the Mental Health Unit at Maseru Hospital provides mental health care, and Mental Health Haven offers counselling support for individuals and families in Botha-Bothe — please reach out to us.