Signs that an individual is contemplating suicide often coincide with those of depression and can often vary, but such symptoms are treatable. Often, the onset of symptoms is slow and therefore goes unnoticed. Even the person himself or herself may assume that he or she is just transitioning into a “normal stage of life” where relationships and experiences are no long as interesting or exciting as they once were. Time to be careful.
Is There Help?
Depression or thoughts of suicide can affect absolutely anybody – you’d be surprised at just who. You are not alone or ‘weird’ or ‘a loser’. Be encouraged. Depression is very treatable and thoughts of suicide can be turned into positive hope. To find out your diagnosis and potential treatment options, speak with your health care provider/doctor immediately.
There is help and hope available. Many people living with depression or thoughts of suicide try to harm themselves because they believe that they’re “stuck this way forever.” This isn’t true. Situations and circumstances do change. Things will get better. Take the first step by deciding to seek treatment and support. It will make a vital difference.
If you are seriously considering suicide, there are a few things that you need to truly know.
You are important. You are valuable. You have a place in this world. The feelings you are going through will not last forever. Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. You can work through this. There is hope. There is help.
It is important that you talk to someone you trust about how you are feeling and seek attention from your health care provider or other authority. You can get through this. You are not alone. You do not need to hurt yourself of anyone else.
Where Can I Turn for Help?
If you are in a serious emergency situation, call your local emergency service:
- In North America, call 911
- In the United Kingdom, call 999
- In New Zealand, call 000.
If you can, talk to a loved one about how you are feeling and let them know you want to find help. Or, you can talk to someone at your school, like a teacher or a guidance counsellor.
Your Life Counts is also here for you. If you ever need to talk, you can visit www.yourlifecounts.org and a trained facilitator will respond within 24 hours. We can even connect you with local resources in your area to find you the support you need.
What if My Loved Ones Don’t Take Me Seriously?
Sometimes people don’t know how to react when they hear that someone they know is considering suicide. Their immediate emotional reaction may appear to be anything from laughter to anger. This does not mean that they don’t care about you! They need to come to terms with your thoughts as well. Let them know that the feelings you have are real and serious and that you are asking for their support in finding help.
Remember that you are important. Your life counts, and you can make a difference in this world. If you ever need to talk about this or anything else, feel free to get in touch with us. We’re here for you.
