Question

What should I do if I'm having suicidal thoughts?

Answer 1

Here are some immediate steps you can take:

• Tell someone you trust—a family member, close friend, or another supportive person. Let them know how you're feeling.
• Contact a mental health professional such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or counselor as soon as possible.
• Avoid being alone if you're feeling like you might act on these thoughts. Stay with someone you trust or ask them to stay with you.
• Remove or distance yourself from anything you could use to harm yourself, if possible.
• Focus on getting through the next few minutes or hours, rather than trying to solve everything at once.

If you believe you are in immediate danger of acting on these thoughts, call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency department right away.

Suicidal thoughts can improve with the right support and treatment. Many people who once felt this way have recovered and gone on to live meaningful lives.

If you're asking because you personally are having suicidal thoughts right now, please tell me:

• Are you in immediate danger, or are you feeling overwhelmed but safe at the moment?

I'm here to listen, and we can take this one step at a time.