# What should I do if I am worried someone may harm themselves?

URL: https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/what-to-do-if-someone-may-harm-themselves
For: Patients | Mental health care | Last reviewed 23 July 2026

**Answer:** Take it seriously. Ask calmly and directly whether they are thinking about suicide or self-harm, whether they have a plan and whether they can stay safe. Asking does not put the idea in their mind. Listen without judgement and do not promise to keep it secret. If risk seems imminent, stay with them, remove dangerous means if it is safe to do so and call 999, 112 or 911 in Kenya, or your local emergency number.

### Ask directly and listen

Use clear, calm language and take the answer seriously. Avoid arguing, shaming or minimising what the person tells you. Evidence does not show that respectful, direct questions create suicidal thoughts.

### Match your response to the level of risk

- Imminent risk, a specific plan, a recent attempt, severe intoxication or inability to stay safe needs emergency help now.
- Do not leave someone at imminent risk alone, and protect your own safety too.
- Keeping someone safe may mean involving trusted people or emergency services, even if they ask you not to.
- Lower but ongoing risk still needs prompt professional assessment and a practical safety plan.
- For urgent emotional support in Kenya, the Kenya Red Cross toll-free line is 1199.

> **Important:** This guide cannot replace emergency response. Call local emergency services or take the person to an emergency facility when danger is immediate. Protect your own safety and do not physically intervene if doing so creates danger.

> **Important:** If there is immediate danger or a medical emergency, contact emergency services now. In Kenya, call 999, 112 or 911. Outside Kenya, use the emergency number for your location.

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