We care deeply about safety and well-being across our platforms, and have worked closely with suicide prevention experts to offer help and support to the Queer Spaces community. We know that LGBTQ young people face unique challenges and struggles, and we want you to know that we’re here to support you.
Getting Help
- If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide — get immediate support.
- The Trevor Project offers a free and confidential crisis counseling service that’s available 24/7, 365 days a year. They can connect you with a trained counselor who can provide support and resources. Helpline: 1-866-488-7386 or Text “Start” to 678678.
- Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: call 988
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: call (888) 628-9454
- If you’re outside of the United States, there are other hotlines and resources available that can provide help and support. You can also reach out to community groups or guidance counselors for additional support and resources.
Suicide prevention — help for friends
If you feel that someone you know is at risk for suicide, the most important thing is to be non-judgmental and encourage them to reach out for help. Connecting them with the resources above is vital.
When possible, call local emergency services. Don’t wait. When you’re concerned you have a suicidal friend or they’ve told you they are having suicidal thoughts, it can be hard to know what to say. Be a good listener, keep the conversation going and encourage your friend to talk to a trusted healthcare professional. Stay connected to your friend and check in with them regularly.
Other ways to help:
- Include phone numbers or links to appropriate help services
- Emphasize the importance of seeking help
- Promote hope and recovery
- Consider not allowing commenting or not responding to comments on other posts
What to look for
Suicide is complex and influenced by many factors. At Queer Spaces, we’ve worked with suicide prevention experts to understand the best ways to support someone having suicidal thoughts. These tips
- Look for warning signs of disinterest or phrases such as “I want to disappear” or “I want to end this.” These may indicate feelings of hopelessness.
- Empathize and listen while giving your full attention. Don’t offer solutions, but help them feel heard and ask open-ended questions that get them talking about their feelings.
- Ask about suicide to show you care and signify you see their level of distress. If they say they are thinking about suicide, continue the conversation and encourage them to talk about the distress to help reduce feelings of isolation.
Reporting posts
Queer Spaces users can report posts they feel indicate someone is thinking about suicide. Trained members of our moderation team will review these reports and, if needed, connect the poster with support resources. When there’s risk of imminent harm, we work with emergency responders.
Lastly…
Remember, you are not responsible for anyone else’s decision to take their own life. But by being there for them, listening to them, and connecting them with resources, you can make a difference in their life.
