I'm thinking about suicide. With what is going on with my life, it seems to be the only choice I have. How can I stop?
- Jake*

If you have been thinking about suicide, get help right away.

When things are so bad that suicide seems like the only choice, it's a sign that depression, discouragement, or despair are strong. These feelings — plus a difficult life situation — can make it seem like there's no way out, and maybe even that suicide is the only choice.

Feeling depressed and trapped can make you feel like you have no other option when you really do have other choices. That's why you need support from someone who knows how to help people work through tough situations. A psychologist, psychiatrist, or other trained behavioral health professional can give you that support.

But how do you find one?

Talk to someone you trust as soon as you can, preferably a parent or other caring, responsible adult in your family. If you can't talk to a parent or relative, talk to someone like a coach, school counselor, religious leader, or teacher you trust. Start the conversation by saying, "I've been having a tough time lately, and I've been thinking about suicide. I need your help." Ask the person to help you find a counselor to speak with about your situation and your feelings.

If you need help finding someone to talk to right now, or if you are thinking about suicide, call a suicide crisis line (such as 1-800-SUICIDE or 1-800-999-9999) or the local suicide helpline in your neighborhood. These toll-free lines are staffed by trained professionals who can help you without ever knowing your name or seeing your face. The calls are confidential. If you feel you're in immediate danger of hurting yourself, you can also go to the emergency department at your local hospital.

Reviewed by: D'Arcy Lyness, PhD
Date reviewed: May 2013

*Names have been changed to protect user privacy.