I'm Thinking About Suicide

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Call the suicide hotline at 1 (800) 273-8255. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.

If you are hard of hearing or need assistive devices, you can chat with a Lifeline counselor 24/7 by:

  • Online chat - regardless of community affiliation
  • For TTY Users: Use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1 (800) 273-8255.

Thinking about suicide is happens, and happens for many people.  When dealing with emotional pain, when your life seems overwhelming, there are ways to address your feelings and overcome that pain. It might take some time but there are people willing to listen to you, hear you, and offer alternatives to ending your life.

I'm having suicidal thoughts, what do I need to know?

No matter how much pain you're experiencing right now, you're not alone. Many of us have had suicidal thoughts at some point in our lives. Feeling suicidal is not a character defect, and it doesn't mean that you are crazy, or weak, or flawed. It only means that you have more pain than you can cope with right now. But with time and support, you can overcome your problems and the pain and suicidal feelings will pass.

Some of the finest, most admired, needed, and talented people have been where you are now. Many of us have thought about taking our own lives when we've felt overwhelmed by depression and devoid of all hope. But the pain of depression can be treated and hope can be renewed. No matter what your situation, there are people who need you, places where you can make a difference, and experiences that can remind you that life is worth living. It takes real courage to face death and step back from the brink. You can use that courage to face life, to learn coping skills for overcoming depression, and for finding the strength to keep going. Remember:

  • Your emotions are not fixed - they are constantly changing. How you feel today may not be the same as how you felt yesterday or how you'll feel tomorrow or next week.
  • Your absence would create grief and anguish in the lives of friends and loved ones.
  • There are many things you can still accomplish in your life.
  • There are sights, sounds, and experiences in life that have the ability to delight and lift you - and that you would miss.
  • Your ability to experience pleasurable emotions is equal to your ability to experience distressing emotions.

Reach out and call the hotline if you or a friend are considering suicide, 1 (800) 273-8255.