Talking about suicide is difficult, but silence can be devastating. This guide – How to talk about suicide – was created in partnership with Zero Suicide Alliance to provide practical, expert-led advice. The goal is for you to feel confident in having open, empathetic, and potentially life-saving conversations about suicide.

Inside this guide, you’ll find advice on using language that reduces stigma, understanding the importance of empathy, and avoiding harmful phrases that are still too common in everyday speech. It explores the warning signs that someone may be struggling, from changes in mood to sudden withdrawal, and offers practical ways to start a conversation about suicide with care and confidence.


You’ll learn how to support those bereaved by suicide and hear directly from those with lived experience. Guidance is also provided for supporting people across the workplace, home and education settings.

This is a resource that can be returned to again and again. It is designed to give you the confidence to start the most important conversations.