If you're worried about someone at risk of suicide

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Sadly, suicide is not uncommon in the automotive industry, and at Ben, we’ve seen a rise in calls from people worried about someone who may be thinking of ending their life.

It can be incredibly distressing when you’re concerned for someone’s safety, but reaching out could make a huge difference. Letting someone know they’re not alone, that they are valued, cared for and supported, can be life-saving.

Why reaching out matters

Many people experience times when life feels too hard to cope with. Talking openly about suicide does not put the idea into someone’s head, instead, it shows you care and can help them feel seen and less alone. You don’t have to have all the answers. Sometimes, just listening and helping them take the next step toward support is enough.

Warning signs to look out for

Every person is different, and not everyone will show obvious signs. But if you notice changes in someone’s behaviour, mood, or routine, especially if these persist, it may be a sign that they’re struggling.

Category	Possible warning signs
Changes in behaviour	Giving away possessions, writing goodbye messages, becoming withdrawn or isolated, using alcohol or drugs more, taking more risks, acting out of character, or giving up activities they used to enjoy.
What they say	Expressing hopelessness (“I don’t want to be here anymore”, “There’s no point”, “Everyone would be better off without me”), or talking about feeling like a burden.
Emotional changes	Feeling trapped, anxious or agitated, displaying extreme mood swings, or seeming unusually calm after a period of distress (this can sometimes indicate a decision to end their life).
Situations that may increase risk	Bereavement, relationship breakdown, job loss or redundancy, financial stress or debt, abuse or trauma, feelings of failure or rejection.

Remember: Not everyone who is suicidal will show clear signs.
Trust your instincts, if something feels wrong or you notice changes that worry you, it’s better to check in than to stay silent.

How to check in with someone you’re worried about

Reaching out might feel uncomfortable, but having a caring, direct conversation could be the lifeline that person needs.

1. Be brave

It’s okay to ask someone directly if they are thinking about suicide, for example:

“I’ve noticed you don’t seem yourself lately. Sometimes when people feel like that, they think about suicide. Is that something you’ve been thinking about?”

You won’t make things worse by asking, in fact, it can open the door to help and safety.

2. Ask open, gentle questions

Give them space to talk. Try:

“How have you been feeling lately?”
“What’s been most difficult for you?”
“Would you like to tell me what’s been going on?”

Avoid yes/no questions, as these can close down conversation.

3. Listen without judgment

Just listen, you don’t need to fix it. Avoid interrupting, giving quick advice or minimising their feelings (“You’ll be fine”, “Others have it worse”). Instead, say things like:

“That sounds really tough.” “I’m glad you told me.”
“You’re not alone, we’ll find help together.”

4. Be patient

It can take time for someone to open up. Silence isn’t a bad thing, let them find their words in their own time. Keep checking in, even if they don’t want to talk right away.

5. Take them seriously

If someone says they are thinking about suicide, believe them. Don’t ignore or downplay it. Encourage them to access professional help and stay with them if they are in immediate danger.

What to do in an emergency

If you believe someone’s life is at immediate risk:

Call 999 — stay with them until help arrives.
Go to A&E and explain that someone is thinking of suicide.
Call 111 if the person is safe for now but needs urgent mental health support.

If possible, remove anything they could use to harm themselves and don’t leave them alone until professional help is available.

When it’s not an emergency but you’re still concerned

If the person is not in immediate danger, encourage them to reach out for help and offer to support them in doing so.

Type of support	How to access
Ben Helpline	Free and confidential for anyone who works, or has worked, in the automotive industry. Call 08081 311 333, email supportservices@ben.org.uk, or chat online at ben.org.uk. (Mon–Fri, 8am–8pm)
Request a call back	Fill out the online form to receive a call at a time that suits you.
Other sources of help	Samaritans – 116 123 (24/7)