Talking about suicide and finding the right words isn’t easy. Yet, it can make a difference for someone struggling with suicidal thoughts.
Trigger warning: This article discusses (thoughts about) suicide. If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or are worried about someone, talk about it. Call 0800-0113 or chat via
113.nl.
On average, five people in the Netherlands take their own life each day. Today, during World Suicide Prevention Week 2025, the theme is “Searching for words.” Because how do you begin a conversation about suicide? What words do you use? And how do you keep listening without judgment? That can take some real figuring out.
Suicide: do talk about it
In the coming years, the theme of World Suicide Prevention Week is Changing the Narrative on Suicide: moving from silence and misunderstanding to a culture of openness, compassion, and support. Each honest talk matters. Through words, we can hold and support each other.
Today we urge everyone to share this message. Because with words, we can help each other. You don’t have to be an expert. Sometimes, just a listening ear is enough.
Documentary ‘In conversation about suicide’
Our volunteers in Zwolle produced a moving documentary about this subject. In it, young people, parents, and professionals share their heartfelt stories. They show that talking — however hard it may be — can break the silence, lift taboos, and reduce loneliness.
Do’s and don’ts when talking about suicide
The 113 Suicide Prevention website offers do’s and don’ts that can help with a conversation.
Do’s
- Naming
“You don’t want to live anymore. Do you mean you’re thinking about suicide?”
“If I understand correctly, you’re thinking about suicide. Is that right?” - Make it concrete
“You’re saying, ‘I’m quitting.’ What do you mean by that?”
“You’re saying, ‘It doesn’t have to be like this anymore.’ What do you mean by ‘like this?'” - Safety
“Do you have a plan?”
“How urgent are you to execute that plan?” - Strengthen
“What usually helps you when you’re feeling this bad?”
“How do you think you can stay safe tonight?”
Don’ts
- Provide immediate help: “Hmm, let me think about how we can take away your bad thoughts.”
- Panic: “Stay seated, I’m calling emergency services now!”
- Participate/agree: “Yes, I understand that you don’t want to…”
- Showing the bright side: “I’ve been through that too, but luckily I came out of it unscathed!”
- Passing judgment: “How selfish, think of your parents!”
- Quick advice: “Why don’t you just exercise more often?”
Would you like to feel more confident starting a conversation about suicidal thoughts? Join the free VraagMaar training via the 113 Suicide Prevention website. At wspw.nl you’ll also find tips, webinars, and toolkits on suicide prevention.
Need help? There’s always someone willing to listen.
Are you thinking about suicide or worried about someone?
- Call for free and anonymously 0800-0113
- Chat 24/7 via 113.nl
113 Suicide Prevention is available 24/7. And of course, you can always drop by at @ease-locations for a face-to-face consultation.