I'm really sorry to hear that your friend is going through such a difficult time. It's important to take any talk of suicide or self-harm seriously. Here are some steps you can take to help your friend:
Be supportive and empathetic: Let your friend know that you care about them and that you are there to listen without judgment. Sometimes, simply having someone to talk to can make a significant difference.
Encourage professional help: Encourage your friend to speak with a mental health professional, such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, counselor, or therapist. Offer to help them find resources or accompany them to their first appointment if they are willing.
Suggest contacting a helpline: If your friend is in immediate distress, you can suggest they contact a suicide prevention helpline or crisis center. In many countries, there are hotlines available for people in crisis.
Avoid leaving them alone: If your friend's safety is at risk, try to stay with them or make sure someone else can be there to provide support. Don't hesitate to involve other friends, family members, or authorities if necessary.
Take talk of suicide seriously: Even if you think your friend might be saying it for attention, it's essential to treat any mention of suicide as a serious matter. It's better to err on the side of caution and seek help.
Encourage positive coping strategies: Suggest healthy ways for your friend to cope with their emotions, such as engaging in hobbies, exercise, spending time in nature, or practicing relaxation techniques like meditation.
Don't keep it a secret: While it's important to respect your friend's privacy, if you believe there is an immediate threat to their life, you should inform a trusted adult, family member, or authority figure who can help.
Educate yourself: Learn about mental health issues, suicide prevention, and available resources so that you can better support your friend.
Remember, you don't have to handle this alone. Reach out to other friends, family, or professionals for assistance. If you're unsure about how to proceed, contact a mental health helpline yourself to seek guidance on how to help your friend. Supporting someone who is struggling emotionally can be emotionally taxing for you as well, so make sure you also have support during this process.