I have a friend who’s suicidal, and he told me he loved me. I want to be friends but I feel like it will make him hurt himself. What do I do?
This is a really hard thing to have to deal with. It is important to understand that you are not responsible for someone else’s mental health, but I can understand you do not want your friend to hurt themselves. You’re going to need some backup on this one, so talk to a trusted adult like your school counselor, teacher, or family member.
Then talk to your friend. Let them talk openly and honestly. If you try to do this without judgment it can show your friend that you care and want them to live. Most importantly, tell them what they mean to you. Be honest with them about your feelings.
Whatever you do please do not swear to secrecy ever. When someone has suicidal thoughts it is an emergency, and it’s a situation the two of you are not prepared to handle alone.
You can also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or text “START” to 741741.
I’ll be keeping you and your friend in my thoughts and prayers. Good luck.
Love,
Auntie Manda
