Self-Care
If you're thinking about suicide, it can help to talk to someone about your feelings. It may not be easy to reach out for help, but it's so important. We all need support from time to time, and there are people who want to help.
Consider talking with:
- A trusted family member, friend, or spiritual advisor.
- A health professional, such as your doctor or counselor.
- Other mental health resources, such as a community mental health agency or employee assistance program.
Where to get help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
If you or someone you know talks about suicide, self-harm, a mental health crisis, a substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress, get help right away. You can:
- Call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
- Call 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).
- Text HOME to 741741 to access the Crisis Text Line.
Consider saving these numbers in your phone.
Go to 988lifeline.org for more information or to chat online.
Family and friends: How to help
You may be able to help someone who is thinking about suicide.
If the person has a plan to harm themself or someone else, call 911.
Where to get help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
If you or someone you know talks about suicide, self-harm, a mental health crisis, a substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress, get help right away. You can:
- Call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
- Call 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).
- Text HOME to 741741 to access the Crisis Text Line.
Consider saving these numbers in your phone.
Go to 988lifeline.org for more information or to chat online.
Other things you can do
- Consider your own safety. If you feel safe, stay with the person, or ask someone you trust to stay with them, until help arrives.
- Talk about the situation as openly as possible. Tell the person that you don't want them to die or to harm another person.
- Show understanding and compassion. Don't argue with the person or deny their feelings. Arguing with the person may only increase their feeling of being out of control of their life.
If you think that someone you know is thinking about suicide, encourage them to get counseling.
- You could offer to help them find a therapist.
- You may be able to help the person get to their appointment. You can even offer to go to the sessions if they want you to.
When to call for help during self-care
Call a doctor if any of the following occur during self-care at home:
- You are worried that thoughts of suicide are not going away.
- Symptoms occur more often or are more severe.
Learn more
- Stop Negative Thoughts: Choosing a Healthier Way of Thinking
- Warning Signs of Suicide
- Warning Signs of Suicide in Children and Teens