Someone you love going through a tough time? We can help.
988 specialists provide free, confidential, and immediate emotional support. We can help you make a plan, tailored to your loved one’s needs.
Whether it’s big or small, you can give us a call.
People call to help their loved ones with lots of things...
- Anxiety and stress
- Feeling down
- Grief and loss
- Problem drinking or drug use
- Life changes
- Thoughts of suicide
- Money worries
- Feeling lonely
Tips for helping them.
Here are some things you can do to help others.
Starting the convo
Lead with empathy. Speak calmly, with warmth and caring. Use “I” statements and ask questions to clarify. Say things like:
I haven’t seen you smile much lately. Is something going on?"
"I’m worried because you seem more anxious than usual. Is everything OK?"
Helping them talk
Just listen. Let them talk without jumping in to “fix” things. Give cues that you are listening like nodding your head. Say nonjudgmental things like:
"I hear you."
"I’m sorry you’re going through that."
"That must be frustrating."
Getting them help
988 is here for them and for you. Let your loved one know 988 specialists welcome calls or texts for problems big or small. It’s a safe place to open up if they want to talk privately. You can also both call 988 together. And feel free to call yourself for tips on helping others.
Tips for helping you.
To take care of others, you have to take care of you. Here are some ways to prevent burnout.
Give yourself a break
Do one thing for YOU each day. Even a 10-minute walk can boost your mood. Or give yourself a 5-minute “vacation” where you ignore everything that needs to be done and just sit and breathe.
Embrace imperfection
You’re human. You may feel like you’re doing the wrong thing or not enough, but remind yourself you’re doing your best. Focus on what you can do and remind yourself that no one is perfect.
Be kind to yourself
Talk to yourself the way you would talk to a loved one. Your emotions deserve the same attention and thoughtful listening as the emotions of those you care about.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) and the Here2Help Hotline (410-433-5175) are working — and can also be reached by calling 988.