Triggering (SI/Suicide) - my best friend

rusynchick · 28-07-2009, 05:22 PM

My best friend Nathan, who is currently living at my house, just admitted to me last night that he was suicidal. I've been there before, so I did my best to be there for him both last night and this morning. Now however I'm not sure what to do next. He says he is going to hang on, and I want to believe him, I really do, but part of me thinks I should be watching him 24/7. I know that it would not help matters, as he even told me, actually begged me, to go on as normal. I am just wondering if there is anything I can do whilst staying in the "normal" activities he begged me for. Does anyone have any ideas? The only thing outside normal I have done is held him while he cried. All advice would be appreciated, thanks.

CrazyHayley · 29-07-2009, 02:08 PM

Hey Ally, I've not been in the same situation as you, but a similar one. My best friend was suicidal and so I went to stay with her for a while. Held her when she cried, but mostly just tried to show her lifes not all bad. We got out photos to remember the good times and the bad haircuts, we put on music to cry to and to dance to. We watched comedys just so that she may crack a smile or two. I just tried to continue as I would have done, though maybe a little more upbeat than usual to try and compensate, I even went out to work, though I was worried sick the whole time I wasn't with her. After a week or so, she decided to go and stay with family for a bit as she was worried about her impact on my health (as I've numerous medical conditions), so I can't really say if I made a big difference or not, but she's still here and I did what I was able to do. You can't watch someone 24/7 and be responsible for them when they are an adult. You can only help them as much as they'll let you help, so its better to do small amonuts of help that they'll accept, rather than do to much and push them away. I really hope things improve for the both of you. *huggles*

SallyMay · 09-08-2009, 07:05 AM

::hugs:: Best I can offer is just to try and be there for him so he know when he is really down he can come to u. You cant ignore it but ask him how is he doing? and things like that. Truely listen to him and show you care... I am sorry if this isnt much help