If You Are Thinking About Suicide

Thinking about suicide doesn’t make you “crazy” or abnormal. Many people think about suicide at some point in their lives, but  do not act on the thought. When we are in crisis it’s hard to see what other options we may have in front of us, so please consider the following suggestions before acting on any thoughts of suicide.

#1 - Delay any action to end your life: Feelings change, and these thoughts will pass. Put it off, even if it’s for a day, or an hour, and allow yourself time to move through these thoughts. Remove the means that you may have available or ask a trusted friend or family member to remove them for you. Avoid drugs and alcohol as these can intensify your feelings and thoughts of suicide and affect your judgment.

#2 - Identify, and connect with your support team. Who are the people in your life that you can trust, that you can lean on? Identify them, and reach out to them. Never keep thoughts of suicide a secret! Let someone know what’s going on and that you need support.

• Trusted Friends  • Family Members • Counselor • Teacher • Coach
• Your Doctor • Religious or Spiritual Leader • Mental Health Professional
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255 – available 24/7)

Surround yourself with as many supportive people as possible. Keep in mind that some people have the capacity to deal with things like this, and some don’t. Identify and reach out to the ones that can.

#3 – Create a Safety Plan: Safety Planning is a process of taking the time to write down signals that you are headed for emotional or mental distress, and the steps to take to stay healthy and safe. Download a safety plan HERE and ask a trusted friend or family member help you fill it out.

If you are in crisis, or are having thoughts of suicide and need immediate help – please call 1-800-273-8255 for free, confidential counseling 24/7.