Sometimes problems can seem overwhelming and the thought of carrying on can seem too difficult, but there are things you can do to cope. If you are hurting yourself or thinking about ending your life, tell someone you trust, and they can help you find support.
There are a number of reasons that may cause you or someone you know to have suicidal thoughts. These can be related to mood, past events, current issues, how you’re coping and how supported and connected you feel. Feelings of hopelessness and thoughts of suicide can be much worse following stressful experiences like a relationship breakup, traumatic life event, grief after the death of a loved one, losing a job or failing a big exam.
You might be thinking that nobody cares about you, that you are a burden, and that things are hopeless. You might be unable to sleep, eat or enjoy any part of life. You often feel exhausted and unable to think clearly through any other options. It’s important to remember that these thoughts and feelings are temporary and no matter how dark it may seem, things will get better.
What to do if you’re thinking about suicide
Having suicidal thoughts can be scary. You may have never had them before, or perhaps the thoughts have been there for a while and you are not sure what to do. Remember that they are just thoughts; you don't have to act on them. Find ways to stay safe, then you can work out how to get support.
Learn the warning signs and how to get support
What to do if your friend is thinking about suicide
If a friend tells you about their thoughts of suicide you might react in a range of different ways – you may feel upset, confused, shocked, angry, fearful, or surprised. It can be hard to understand why someone wants to take their own life but whatever your reaction, it is important to listen without judgement and help them find support.
Learn what you can do if you're worried about a loved one
Self-harm and self-injury
Self-harm is deliberately hurting your body to relieve, control or express distressing emotions. It might feel like a way to manage intense emotions when they become overwhelming, but it can be harmful and the difficult feelings usually return. It’s possible to learn to cope with these feelings in better ways and give you relief in the long-term.
Learn about self-harm and how to get support