3. Suggest that means other than suicide can be discovered to work out the person’s problems, even if they are not apparent at the time. Shneidman (1985) notes that suicidal people can usually see only two solutions to their predicaments: either suicide or some kind of magical resolution. Professionals try to help them see the available alternatives. Imagine yourself having an intimate conversation with a close campus friend, Chris. You know that things have not been good.

Chris’s grandfather died six weeks ago, and the two had been very close. Chris’s grades have been going downhill, and Chris’s romantic relationship also seems to be coming apart at the seams. Still, you are unprepared when Chris says very deliberately,

“I just can’t take it anymore. Life is just too painful. I don’t feel like I want to live anymore. I’ve decided that the only thing I can do is to kill myself.”

When somebody discloses that he or she is contemplating suicide, you may feel bewildered and frightened, as if a great burden has been placed on your shoulders. It has been. If someone confides suicidal thoughts to you, your goal should be to persuade him or her to see a professional, or to get the advice of a professional yourself as soon as you can.