If you are worried about suicidal symptoms, what should you do?

• A. Get help immediately
• B. Talk to a friend only
• C. Wait and see
• D. Self-care only

Answer: (A)

When there are suicidal symptoms, the priority is immediate safety and professional assessment. Suicidal thoughts or behaviors can escalate quickly, and only trained clinicians can properly evaluate intent, risk, and the need for urgent care or crisis intervention. Getting help right away helps ensure you’re not alone with the risk and that a safety plan and appropriate treatment are put in place.

Relying on talking to a friend alone, while supportive, doesn’t substitute for a clinical risk assessment or crisis response. Similarly, waiting to “see what happens” or focusing only on self-care can miss escalating danger and delay crucial help.

Practical steps include contacting a mental health professional or crisis service immediately, going to the emergency department if there’s imminent danger, or reaching out to a trusted person to stay with you while help is arranged. In a healthcare setting, alert a supervisor or contact employee health or an institutional crisis line and follow established safety protocols to protect the patient or coworker.