There IS help

Even though it may be hard to believe right now, there are friends, family, and professionals who care about you and are willing to help. They aren’t too busy. You aren’t a burden. They care and your safety is important to them. You matter.

Things will probably get better

It may be hard to realize it now, but your situation will very likely get better. Try to remember that things won’t stay the same as they are now. People who are suicidal often feel hopeless, so much so that it can paint a very bleak vision of the future. With time and help from others, crisis situations or life circumstances can, and usually do, get better.

This is probably temporary

Nearly every survivor of a suicidal crisis or suicide attempt is glad that they lived through it or reached out for help before they attempted. Most suicidal people don’t truly want to die—they just want to be free from whatever situation or feeling is contributing to suicidal thoughts. People with thoughts of suicide often feel that it’s their only option, but with time and help from others, better options become available.

Avoid alcohol/drugs

While it may be tempting to cope with drinking or drugs, or to go out and be social at bars/parties, using substances when you’re in crisis or feeling suicidal isn’t a good idea because it clouds your thinking and judgment. Stick to more helpful ways of coping/socializing. If you are in recovery and avoiding use is difficult right now, reach out to one of the professional resources provided or to a sponsor.


What you can do right now

In addition to using the above resources, here is a short list of things that can keep you safe or calm you down:

  • Call someone. Call anyone who will listen, or just call to catch up and chat with a friend.
  • Make your environment safe. Remove anything that you could use to hurt or kill yourself. Ask a friend or UPD to hold onto those items for you. 
  • Distract yourself. Read a book, watch YouTube videos, walk around the block, get a snack, call a friend, anything that will help get your mind off your worries. Click here for 100 options
  • Increase your safety. Ask a friend to stay with you, stay with a friend, or consider going to the ER.
  • If these strategies are not available or useful, reach out to one of the professional resources provided.