The Message to the Team

Dev, 24, a colleague of Mira's in Mumbai, sends a late message that says, "Tell the team I am sorry for everything. I won't be a problem any more." Mira has noticed he has been withdrawn and has given away some of his be…

Dev, 24, a colleague of Mira's in Mumbai, sends a late message that says, "Tell the team I am sorry for everything. I won't be a problem any more." Mira has noticed he has been withdrawn and has given away some of his belongings. Her stomach drops.

She calls him at once. He answers quietly. She says, "I got your message and I am worried. Are you thinking of ending your life?" After a long silence, he says yes. She stays calm, thanks him for telling her and asks where he is. He is at home alone.

Mira says she will not leave him alone, that she is coming over, and asks him to put aside anything he might use to hurt himself. She calls his brother, who joins them, and together they take Dev to the nearest hospital emergency department. On the way Mira listens and does not argue or lecture.

The doctors assess Dev and arrange care. In the weeks after, the family and workplace support him with follow-up and a safety plan. Mira says later, "Asking directly did not put the idea in his head. It opened the door." At work, a manager arranges flexible hours and the team quietly checks in on him, without gossip or pity. Mira also speaks to a counsellor herself, because the night was heavy for her too.

How to recognise it

• Statements about being a burden or wanting to disappear.

• Giving away belongings or saying goodbye.

• Withdrawal and sudden calm after deep distress.

• Hopelessness, sleep and mood changes.

• Previous attempts or major recent loss.

What this story explains

Recognising suicide risk and responding quickly means listening, asking directly, not leaving the person alone and getting immediate professional help.

Probable root causes

• Depression or other mental illness.

• Overwhelming stress or loss.

• Isolation and hopelessness.

• Easy access to means of harm.

• Previous attempts.

What to do

1. Take any hint seriously.

2. Ask directly and calmly about suicide.

3. Stay with the person and keep them safe.

4. Remove or secure anything that could be used for harm.

5. Call the local emergency service or go to the nearest hospital.

6. Involve trusted family or friends.

Whom to consult

• Emergency service or nearest hospital right away if there is a plan or intent.

• Psychiatrist for assessment and follow-up care.

• Clinical psychologist or counsellor for ongoing support.

Do and don’t

How to behave and communicate

• Ask plainly: "Are you thinking of ending your life?"

• Say: "I am here. You are not alone."

• Listen without lecturing.

• Stay calm and speak slowly.