Risk

Suicide is not a joke. If someone you are close to (or even someone who isn't) threatens suicide or talks a lot about killing themselves, it is better to be there for them as much as you can, as upsetting it is, or you might find another body like I have. If someone says they no longer want to live, you had best take it seriously. As for those who have had suicidal thoughts only to have the people you tell get angry with you, just remember one thing: They aren't angry with you. There is nothing you did that was wrong enough to warrant such a thing. Their anger is about them and them only, and not what you have said (or have done to yourself already). Typically they will get upset purely for the fact they don't know what to do to help you. It is very frustrating and hurtful to watch someone you care about suffer so much, and naturally they are afraid that you will end up hanging by a belt in the bathroom. So don't worry about upsetting them. You tell them how you feel, even if they don't like it or what you have to say. That's what friends are for. If they are your real friend they will listen no matter how much it hurts their feelings. Calling the hospital on the person who told you that they wish to die will only make matters worse. Forced confinement (it is a jail type setting, believe me) does nothing but make one feel abandoned by the very people who only want to help. But of course if they have made literal attempts at death or started saying things that at such and such time i plan on doing it, that might be the best option. But do not just run to the phone and send the whitecoats just because they say they want to die. For now just listen. Let them spill their guts to you. Sometimes all they need is someone to listen. It is mainly when no one listens at all anymore that things can get dangerous. So do the right thing. If you feel you have no one to talk to, there are some who can help. I refer you to Samaritans (and Befrienders). They have international telephone numbers you can call for emotional support and you can even talk through e-mail if you prefer it. I recommend it to anyone going through hard times. Here are some valuable warning signs. Edit: Added websites.