Helpful Phrases and Questions

If you are in crisis, dial 2-1-1 from anywhere in Connecticut. 2-1-1 is certified by the American Association of Suicidology. If you live outside of Connecticut use the National Hopeline number which is 1-800-784-2433.

ACHIEVING CONTACT.

Use statements that reflect feelings:

• You feel (very)_____________.
• That must make you feel ___________________.
• You sound ________________.
• You find it (very) ___________.
• That must be ___________ for you.

FOCUSING ON THE PROBLEM(S).

Use open-ended questions:

• What happened today?
• Can you tell me what's going on right now?
• Can you recall what started all of this?
• How does this make you feel?
• How long has this been going on?
• Where do things stand right now?
• How do you see things turning out?
• Has something like this ever happened before?
• Have you ever felt like this before?
• How has all this affected you?
• How do you see the problem right now?
• Which problem(s) do you want to see resolved the most?

COPING: Ask questions…Reflect feelings…Don't argue:

• What have you tried so far?
• What has helped in the past? What hasn't?
• Who has been most supportive?
• What help are you looking for now?
• You seem confused about what to do.
• Things seem overwhelming right now.
• It is hard for you to know what to do next.
• What have you thought of trying?
• What would you like to do? What gets in the way?
• What do you think needs to happen?
• Have you considered ____________? (identify alternatives to suicide)
• Of the ideas we've talked about, what seems best to you?
• What will you do now?
• Who can help you with this?