haveTHATtalk About Suicide

Last revised: July 31, 2026.

haveTHATtalk About Suicide

Talking about suicide can be uncomfortable. Many people worry about saying the wrong thing or making things worse. However, open and compassionate conversations are an important part of suicide prevention.

haveTHATtalk About Suicide is a short video and activity guide designed to help reduce stigma and build confidence talking about suicide in an open and direct way.

For more information and additional suicide prevention resources, visit Suicide Prevention Ottawa.


haveTHATtalk About Suicide - Activity Guide

This activity guide accompanies the haveTHATtalk About Suicide video. It includes practical activities to help reduce stigma, build comfort talking about suicide, and support responding with care and connecting people to help.

haveTHATtalk About Suicide Activity Guide (PDF- 1.03 MB)

This guide is intended primarily for adult audiences. It may be used with mixed-age groups that include older youth when trusted adults are present, but it is not recommended for youth-only groups.

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Transcript

This video includes discussions about suicide and mental health. Some viewers may find this topic difficult.

If you are feeling overwhelmed at any time, please reach out to someone you trust or call a crisis line such as 9-8-8.

Help and support are available.

Suicide affects people of all ages, cultures and communities.

So, you might be wondering, why don't we talk about it more often?

One reason is stigma, which is the negative attitudes and beliefs that lead to fear and isolation.
Stigma can stop people from asking for help when they need it.
Fear of judgment makes people hide their pain and that can make things worse.

Another reason is that talking about suicide can feel hard because it is a loss of life.

But when we talk about it, we give hope and we may help someone in need. Stigma builds walls. Empathy breaks them down.

When we speak safely with kindness and care, we open the door to support and healing.

Every conversation matters. The words we use are important.
Using person first language means we talk about the person before we talk about what they are going through.
Instead of saying a suicidal person, say this a person is having thoughts of suicide.
Instead of saying committed suicide, say died by suicide.

Respectful and safe language helps people feel supported and contributes to them sharing and seeking help.

Let's look at some common myths about suicide and the truth behind them.

Myth: Talking or asking about suicide puts the idea into someone's head. Truth is, no, it won't.
Suicide is not something you can simply catch.

Talking openly and directly about suicide can help keep someone safe.

Myth: People who talk about suicide are just seeking attention.

Truth is, it's a sign of deep pain and a brave call for help.

Myth: You need to be a professional to help.

Truth is, you don't.

Listening and connecting someone to support can save a life.

Here are simple steps you can take if someone might be thinking about suicide. Ask clearly. Are you thinking about suicide?

Listen without judgment. Let them know they're not alone.

Share resources.

Suicide Crisis Helpline : 9-8-8

Ottawa Distress Centre: 613-238-3311

Hope for Wellness Help Line (Indigenous Support): 1-855-242-3310 

There is hope. There is help.
Resources

If you or someone you know is in distress, please call one of the 24 hour help lines below:

For more resources and supports please visit the Mental Health, Addictions and Substance Use Health Services and Resources webpage.

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