WHAT ARE SUICIDAL THOUGHTS?
- Suicidal thoughts are thoughts a person has about not wanting to be alive.
- They range in intensity, from wondering what it would be like not to be alive, to making an action plan to end their life.
- Anyone can have them, and they can be a result of a whole host of different emotions or feelings.
- If you’re experiencing suicidal thoughts it is important that you tell someone about them and get help.
People experience suicidal thoughts for many reasons – and they can be a result of a combination of things. Anyone can have them, and there is nothing wrong with you if you or the person you care about is experiencing thoughts about taking their own life.
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts it is important that you tell someone about them and get help. You can contact the CALM helpline between 5pm-midnight or call 999 if you or someone you know is in immediate danger.
People experience suicidal thoughts for lots of reasons. These can include:
- A major loss, trauma or setback, like losing a loved one, losing a job or experiencing health or financial difficulties, can make it feel like isn’t worth living
- Someone close to you attempted to take their own life, or died by suicide
- Past life events, especially if they involve some form of trauma
- Drinking or using drugs heavily
- Challenges around personal identity – like sexuality, or your role within a family
- Feeling upset and angry but don’t understand why
- Experience of being bullied or rejected and feeling low or worthless
- Feeling alone and/or lonely
- Experiencing suicidal thoughts for what feels like no reason at all.
No matter how you’re feeling, or what situation you’re in there’s always a way forward – even if it doesn’t feel that way right now.