Suicide Prevention
Helping Someone at Risk of Suicide
Talking about suicide can feel difficult, but avoiding the conversation can do more harm than good. Suicide is preventable, and sometimes just one conversation can save a life. This page brings together practical guidance, training, and support resources to help you make a difference.
Recognise the Signs
Recognising warning signs is the first step in helping someone. Signs can include:
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Talking about feeling hopeless or wanting to die
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Withdrawing from friends, family, or activities they used to enjoy
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Acting recklessly or unusually calm after a period of distress
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Saying unexpected goodbyes
Changes often follow triggers such as relationship breakdowns, grief, financial stress, illness, or feeling isolated. If you notice someone showing signs of distress, reach out. Asking directly, “Are you thinking about suicide?” can make a real difference. It won’t put the idea in their head,it shows you care and that they are not alone.
Zero Suicide Alliance Training
The Zero Suicide Alliance (ZSA) online training is a free, 30-minute course that gives you the skills and confidence to:
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Recognise the warning signs of suicide
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Start life-saving conversations
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Guide people to the right support
Signpost to Support
You don’t need to be an expert to help. You just need to know where to turn. Depending on the situation, you can guide someone to:
Barnet Wellbeing Service:
We are your local mental health and wellbeing service, here to provide advice, support, and referrals to a wide range of services and activities across Barnet.
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Phone: 03333 449088 (Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm)
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Email: info@barnetwellbeing.org.uk
Local support services:
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Sanctuary Barnet (Crisis Café) - For anyone over 18. Provides immediate emotional support to anyone experiencing distress. Phone: 020 8343 5704 | Open Monday–Friday 4:30pm–10:00pm, Weekends 12:00pm–6:00pm | Email: SanctuaryBarnet@mindeb.org.uk
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Stay Alive app - A free suicide prevention app providing practical information and tools to help if you’re having thoughts of suicide, or are concerned about someone else
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NHS 111 - Call 111 and select option 2 for Mental Health support, available 24/7
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Shout - Text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258 to access free, 24/7, confidential text support from trained volunteers
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Samaritans – 116 123 (free, 24/7)
Further Support:
For more information on mental health, wellbeing, and crisis support, visit Barnet Council Mental Health & Wellbeing Services.