Supporting people with suicidal thoughts

On World Suicide Prevention Day, the College launched two new information resources designed to help anyone affected by suicidal thoughts, and the clinicians who care for them.

Suicidal thoughts and Supporting someone in distress or with suicidal thoughts challenge the common misconception that discussing suicide increases the risk of someone acting on their thoughts. The latter resource provides practical advice about talking to someone in distress and the ways in which people can have safe conversations about suicide.

These resources were developed by people with lived experience alongside mental health professionals with expertise in the treatment and support of those experiencing suicidal thoughts.

Clinicians may find this guidance particularly useful to share with their patients as we know that some people who die by suicide have been in contact with mental health services.

Suicide remains a major public health issue, with 6,190 suicides registered in England and Wales, 704 probable suicides in Scotland and 290 suicides registered in Northern Ireland in 2024.

There are many people who don’t seek help for suicidal thoughts because they are worried about stigma, do not recognise they need support or aren’t able to access appropriate services. Mental health staff can help address some of these barriers by recommending these resources to people in need and those who might be concerned about a loved one or someone they know. Family members and friends often play a key role in helping people access care and treatment.

Professor Subodh Dave, President of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, said:

“Every suicide is a tragedy that has a devastating impact on families, friends and communities.

“One of the key messages from our new guidance is that people should not be afraid to talk about suicide. Compassionate conversations and early support can make a real difference.

“People who have a severe mental illness are at much greater risk of suicide than the wider population but too often don’t know where to go for help or face long waits for support. Reducing these inequalities and ensuring people can access timely, high-quality mental healthcare must be a priority if we are serious about preventing suicide and saving lives.”

Dr Alys Cole-King, lead author of the new resources on suicide, said:

“Suicidal thoughts are more common than people realise, we just don’t talk about them often enough. There is still so much stigma and fear around admitting if you’re struggling or having suicidal thoughts that it can stop people from telling others or asking for help.

“These resources have been designed to help people experiencing suicidal thoughts as well as family members, friends and others who may be worried about someone they care about but not know how best to help them. They include information about safety planning and other practical steps people can take to help keep themselves safe.”

The College also provides information for anyone who wants to know more about self-harm, suicide prevention and bereavement following suicide.

This article was included in our September 2026 eNewsletter.