Supporting a Loved One Through Crisis: Do’s and Don’ts

When someone you love is struggling with suicidal thoughts, it can shake the very foundation of your world. You may feel helpless, terrified, or even paralyzed, afraid of saying the wrong thing yet desperate to do something that will ease their pain. It is a heavy burden to carry, and it is normal to feel overwhelmed by the uncertainty of how to show up in these moments. Many families and friends silently ask themselves: How can I possibly help? What if I make it worse?

The truth is, there is no perfect script. No single set of words can erase the hurt your loved one is carrying. What matters most is not perfection but presence. Your compassion, your patience, and your willingness to listen without judgment can be a lifeline. Even when you do not have the answers, the simple act of sitting beside someone in their darkest hour can remind them that they are not alone.

There is magic and power that comes in the form of human connection. Families and friends hold a unique and irreplaceable role in supporting loved ones through crisis. While professional help is vital, it is often the steady presence of those closest that helps someone feel seen, valued, and worthy of hope.

Below is some gentle guidance on what you can try (and avoid) when supporting a loved one through this sensitive time. These suggestions are meant to be tools, rather than hard and fast rules, to help you feel more confident and compassionate in your approach. 

Do: Listen Without Judgment

Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is simply sit and listen. Your loved one may need to share their feelings openly, even if what they say is difficult to hear. Practice active listening by staying present, reflecting back what you hear, and offering empathy through simple phrases like, “That sounds really painful” or “I’m here with you.” These words let them know they are not alone.

Don’t: Dismiss or Minimize Their Feelings

It can be tempting to try to reassure with quick fixes, but phrases like “It’s not that bad” or “You’ll get over it” can feel dismissive. Instead, acknowledge the seriousness of what they are going through. Saying something as simple as “I can see how much you’re hurting and I care about you” validates their experience.

Do: Encourage Professional Help

Your love and support are essential, but suicidal thoughts require the care of trained professionals. Encourage your loved one to reach out to a therapist, doctor, or crisis counselor. If it feels overwhelming to them, you might offer to sit with them while they make the call, help look up resources, or even go with them to an appointment.

Don’t: Try to Handle It All Alone

You may feel a strong pull to “fix” things yourself, but no one should carry that responsibility alone. Make sure you lean on supportive friends, family members, or professionals. Your role is to walk alongside your loved one, not to carry the entire weight of their struggle.

Do: Set Healthy Boundaries

Supporting someone in crisis is emotionally intense, and it is okay to acknowledge your own limits. Boundaries help you show up with more patience and steadiness. You might say, “I want to be here for you, but I also need to rest tonight. Let’s call your therapist together tomorrow.” This approach shows care while also protecting your own wellbeing.

Don’t: Keep It a Secret

If your loved one confides in you and asks you not to tell anyone, but you believe they are in immediate danger, it is important to seek help anyway. Their safety comes first, even if it feels uncomfortable.

Free Resource: Suicide Prevention Awareness Guide

At Simply Bee, we understand how hard it can be to find the right words when someone you care about is in crisis. That’s why we’ve created a free Suicide Prevention Awareness Resource filled with practical tips on how to start supportive conversations, signs to look for, and a list of national crisis contacts you can share right away. This resource is designed to help you feel more confident and prepared when your loved one needs you most.

Click here to view the resource

Crisis Resources You Can Share

If you or someone you love is struggling with suicidal thoughts, you are not alone. There are people who will listen and help right now:

• Call or text 988 in the U.S. to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
• Text “HELLO” to 741741 for the Crisis Text Line
• Reach out to a trusted mental health professional or primary care doctor
• If danger is imminent, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room
  
  

Final Thoughts

Supporting a loved one who is struggling with suicidal thoughts is one of the hardest things you may ever face, but your presence truly matters. By listening with empathy, encouraging professional help, and caring for yourself through boundaries, you are offering exactly what your loved one needs most: connection, compassion, and hope.

At Simply Bee, we are here to walk alongside families and individuals during difficult times. If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out to our team of therapists for guidance and care.