What should I do if friend has told me in confidence that she sometimes thinks of suicide

[cheeseandjam]

My dear friend is suffering from very severe depression just started of Prozac and diazepam. She told me tonight that she thinks of jumping off a bridge and taking her children with her. What should I do I just feel so helpless and it is begining to make me feel quite ill. How can I get the help she needs?

Personally if a friend told me she was suicidal I would just encourage her to tell her gp and family ( she has medication so dr must have some awareness of something). Many people think of suicide as it can be the Brian's way of trying to keep safe is how I was told - and do not act on it.

BUT because she told you she was thinking of taking her kids with her I could not ignore that and I would have to tell someone ( mainly because if she was serious I could not live with the guilt). Am not sure who to tell - other people may have suggestions. But I would want to ensure the dr in charge of her care knew - whether it was directly or via family depends on if family would pass that on.

*brain

I would phone Samaritans for advice. Sure they will know what to do. I have had PND and felt some "flashes" of suicidal thoughts (but never involving my children) and it is just part of being v v ill. How is your friend now? Notice your post was a week ago?