How do you know if someone is truly suicidal or if they're just having a passing thought?

You don't always know. If you take some time to talk to that person, sometimes you find out they are lonely and sad and just needed to know someone cared. Or maybe through intervention, they reveal to you why they feel suicidal and by talking to them, you can make a difference that makes them evaluate their lives. However a suicidal person is not thinking rationally or logically, so it does help by realizing that and responding in a calm compassionate way to them. If unsure, help them to find the help they need and alert someone who is familiar with that person and cares to take them seriously. Never dismiss a person who appears depressed or talks about killing themselves. Maybe some people still would be alive if another person had reached out to them in kindness and love. While you may not be able to see all the signs or stop all suicides, there are people who do reach out in some way to show how badly they are hurting.

Even a passing thought can be dangerous. I take all types of signals to heart. Takes only a moment of conviction to end a life. 😟

They commit suicide without posting here

When they send you text messages that say goodbye or I'm not in a good place right now. This happened to someone I knew. She was a mother of 2 boys and took her life. Her last text to me was I was always a good friend to her.

The more committed they are to that course of action, the less they will advertise it for fear of being thwarted. This doesn't mean you should ignore cries for help though.

When they get specific about what they are going to do and have the means or resources to do it.

Every thought of suicide eventually passes, so there is no difference. They all need equal help.

hey you made it here. if it lingers.

the odds are that most are just seeking attention.. but, one never knows who those few are..

Unless you really know the person, you don't. So it's best to take it all seriously.