Things You'll Need:
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Step 1
If someone in a chat room or on a message board mentions wanting to commit suicide, assess how serious the threat is. Talk to them. Ask them if they have a plan. If they can tell you details, then it is very likely they are serious. However, keep in mind that all suicide threats should be taken seriously, even if there is not a current plan in place.
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Step 2
If possible, give the person the number of the National Suicide Prevention Hotline--1-800-273-TALK. Get the person to make you a promise to call the hotline and get back with you in a set amount of time, such as one hour or 8:00 the next morning. Make sure you get the person to promise not to harm themselves in any way during that time frame. Remind them that they are not promising to never commit suicide, just not to do it in the time frame that you specify, during which they can find help.
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Step 3
If the person has a method with which they are planning to commit suicide, such as a gun, knife or pills, make them promise to flush the pills, lock up the gun, etc. while they seek help or until they talk to you again.
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Step 4
If the suicide threat is made on a message board, contact the board administrator. That person may have contact details for the individual, and can contact authorities. Remember, you are not being "uncool" by informing someone know about a potential suicide. You may be able to save a life!
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Step 5
If you get stuck, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline yourself, and ask for advice in dealing with online suicide threats. If you are chatting with someone who refuses to call the number, you may be able to convey some helpful information to them.
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Step 6
Remember that suicide is the choice of the individual, who most likely is struggling with serious mental illness, such as clinical depression. There may not be anything you can do to prevent it. It is not your fault if the person makes the choice to commit suicide despite your attempts to help.
