Notice and name it
The signs are usually ordinary: pulling away, sleeping far more or less, missing class, giving things away, talking about being a burden, drinking more, a flat affect where there used to be energy. If you are worried, that is reason enough to say something — you do not need to be sure.
How to check in
Pick a private moment, be direct and kind: "I’ve noticed you haven’t seemed like yourself lately, and I care about you. How are you actually doing?" Then listen more than you talk. You do not need to fix it or have the right words; being there and taking it seriously is the help.
Ask directly about safety
If they mention hopelessness or not wanting to be here, ask plainly: "Are you thinking about suicide?" Asking does not plant the idea — it opens a door and lets them be honest. If the answer is yes, do not leave them alone, and get help now.
Connect them to real support
Offer to help them make the call or walk them to Counseling Services. The 24-hour Student Support Line is (715) 555–0117. You can also submit a care referral so a professional reaches out. For an immediate danger, call 911 or Campus Safety at (715) 555–0191.
What not to do
Do not promise secrecy if they are in danger — say "I care too much to keep this to myself." Do not try to be their therapist, argue them out of how they feel, or make it about you. Do not take on being their only support; that is not sustainable for either of you.
Look after yourself
Supporting someone in a hard place is heavy. "Let’s Talk" drop-in and the counseling center are for you too — talking to someone about carrying this is not a betrayal of your friend. You help more when you are not running on empty.
Fictional information
UW–Porter Falls is a work of parody. Every office, person, building, phone number and statistic on this page is invented; nothing here describes a real institution or a service you can actually contact.