I wish to add a point, as at the moment I have a loved one in hospital for suicidal ideation. She sometimes has troubles articulating her feelings, however we have an agreed-upon "code word" that she is to use if she feels suicidal. She came to us with the code word and that alerted us that matters were very serious. Having good rapport with your sufferer, being able to speak with them openly and having them trust you are very important.