How to spot when someone needs help
It isn't always easy to recognise when someone needs support. If you think a friend or family member might be struggling, ask how they are - then ask again, because often we say we're fine when we're not. These websites include useful information to help you spot when someone might need a listening ear:
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Signs that someone might not be ok - Samaritans guide to signs to look out for
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Spot the signs - Movember guide to how to spot when someone is feeling low
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Mental health feelings and symptoms - wide-ranging NHS information about signs and symptoms of mental health conditions
How to start a chat and what to say
It can be difficult to know what to say to someone who's having a tough time. How do you start the conversation? And what do you say if they do open up to you? These websites include useful tips and tools to help:
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How to start the conversation - Samaritans tips on how to help someone open up
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Movember Conversations - interactive tool to help you navigate conversations with a man who might be feeling low
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What to do if you're worried about someone else - Samaritans guide to supporting others in a range of scenarios
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Helping someone else - Mind information about supporting others through a range of mental health conditions
How to listen
How often do you really listen to others? We're often distracted by our own thoughts, or eager to jump in to offer advice and share our own experiences. These tips can help:
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Samaritans listening tips - Use the SHUSH technique:
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Show you care​
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Have patience
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Use open questions
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Say it back
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Have courage
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Active listening - ten useful tips from the British Heart Foundation
Where to signpost them
If someone is struggling, they may need some professional support. You might encourage them to talk to:
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Their GP
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Connection: Dorset's 24/7 mental health helpline - 0800 652 0190
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One of the many other organisations listed in our How to find support section
Training opportunities
A number of different organisations provide free and subsidised training in suicide awareness and mental health:
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Zero Suicide Alliance Suicide Awareness Training - free 20-minute suicide awareness training that will help you gain the skills and confidence to help someone who may be considering suicide
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Dorset Mind training - a wide range of bespoke mental health training and Mental Health First Aid for organisations and individuals