Begin talking about it by asking questions
Talking about it without judgment or accusation can be the help a person needs to set them on a path to wellness. Here are some questions to ask:

"Do you ever feel so badly that you think about suicide?" "Do you have a plan to take your life?" "Have you thought about when you would do it (today, tomorrow, next week)?" "Have you thought about what method you would use?"

A suicidal person should see a doctor or mental health professional immediately. Calling the Native American Youth Hotline (877-209-1266) is a good first step towards getting the help you need. Calling 911 or going to a hospital emergency room are also options to prevent a suicide attempt or death.

If you feel the person isn't in immediate danger, acknowledge the pain as legitimate and offer to work together to get help. Make sure you follow through. This is one instance where you must be tenacious in your follow-up. Offer to help find an elder, community leader, educator, or doctor. Participate in making the first phone call, or go along to the first appointment.

Never keep a plan for suicide a secret
Don’t worry about the person you care about getting mad at you. You have bigger things to worry about—someone’s life might be in danger! It is better to violate a confidence than it is to lose a loved one. They may later thank you for saving their life.

Don't try to minimize problems or shame a person into changing their mind
Trying to convince a person that what they are feeling is not that bad, or that they have everything to live for may only increase their feelings of guilt and hopelessness. Let them know that help is available, that suicidal feelings are temporary, that they are important members of the community, and that life can get better!