Suicide First Aid: Compassionate Steps to Save a Life

Every 40 seconds, someone dies by suicide. It's a shocking statistic and a painful reminder that behind every number is a real person, often suffering in silence.

At We Are Hummingbird, we believe suicide prevention starts with awareness, continues with conversation, and relies on community. You don't need to be a therapist to save a life, you just need to know what to look for, how to talk about it, and where to point someone for help. That's exactly what Suicide First Aid (SFA) is all about.

 

Why We Talk About Suicide

Suicide is still heavily misunderstood. Many people think someone talking about suicide is just being dramatic, or that suicide happens impulsively, without warning. But in most cases, suicidal thoughts build over time. They're often a response to ongoing distress, caused by mental health issues like depression, unresolved trauma, or overwhelming life pressures.

Understanding this is key. When we recognise that suicide isn't about weakness, but rather, pain that feels impossible to bear, we can offer support in a far more compassionate and effective way.

 

Spotting the Signs

People who are feeling suicidal don't always say so directly, but they often show signs if you know how to spot them.

Some warning signs might include:

1.    Withdrawing from friends or activities

2.    Expressing hopelessness or guilt

3.    Sleeping too much or too little

4.    Saying things like "I can't do this anymore" or "You'd be better off without me"

5.    Suddenly seeming very calm after a period of deep sadness

There are also more subtle clues, like getting affairs in order, giving away possessions, or expressing a sense of being a burden.

The important thing to remember is this: if you're worried about someone, trust your gut. You don't need to have all the answers. Just starting a conversation could be the first step toward saving a life.

 

How to Start the Conversation

As difficult as it might feel, asking someone directly if they're thinking about suicide won't "put the idea in their head." In fact, it can offer relief, because it shows you see them and care enough to ask.

You can say something like:

"You've seemed really down lately, and I'm worried about you. Can we talk?"

Or if you're seriously concerned:

"I need to ask, are you thinking about ending your life?"

If they say yes, stay calm. Listen without judging. Don't try to fix it or offer clichés like "It'll be fine." Just let them know they're not alone. That you care. And that help is out there.

Supporting Organisational Change: Suicide First Aid Training for Employers

At We Are Hummingbird Health, we deliver Suicide First Aid (SFA) training designed specifically for organisations and employers who want to better support the mental health of their staff.

This course isn't about turning your team into counsellors, it's about giving managers, HR professionals, and workplace leaders the confidence to recognise warning signs, intervene safely, and connect employees to appropriate support when it matters most.

By embedding Suicide First Aid into your organisation, you are creating a culture of care, reducing stigma, and helping build a safer, more supportive workplace.

Delivered by our experienced team, this course forms part of our wider mission: to drive real change in how organisations approach mental health and wellbeing.

SEE OUR COURSES

 

Support Starts with You

At We Are Hummingbird, we know real change starts when we stop looking the other way. Suicide prevention isn't only a job for professionals, it's something we all have a role in.

By learning how to spot the signs, start the conversation, and take safe, supportive steps, you can become a vital part of someone's recovery story. Because sometimes, hope looks like a simple question. And sometimes, saving a life starts with showing up.