I'm having thoughts of suicide - what should I do right now?

If you're having thoughts of suicide, please know that you're not alone and that help is available. These thoughts are a symptom of intense emotional pain, not a character flaw, and they can be treated. Taking the step to seek information about what to do shows strength and a part of you that wants to live and feel better. If you're in immediate danger or have a specific plan to harm yourself, please reach out for emergency help right now. Call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), go to your nearest emergency room, or call 911. These services are available 24/7 and are staffed by trained professionals who understand what you're going through. If you're having thoughts of suicide but don't feel you're in immediate danger, there are several important steps you can take. First, reach out to someone you trust—a friend, family member, counselor, or healthcare provider. You don't have to go through this alone, and talking about these feelings often provides some relief and helps you feel less isolated. Remove or secure any means of self-harm from your immediate environment. This might mean asking someone to temporarily hold onto medications, firearms, or other potentially harmful items. This isn't about not trusting yourself—it's about creating safety during a vulnerable time when your judgment might be affected by intense emotional pain. Create a safety plan that you can use when suicidal thoughts become intense. This might include a list of people you can call, activities that help you feel better, reasons you want to stay alive, or places you can go to feel safe. Write this down and keep it somewhere easily accessible. Focus on getting through the next few hours or days rather than trying to solve everything at once. Suicidal thoughts often come in waves and can feel less intense with time, especially when you're receiving support and treatment. Tell yourself you'll wait before making any permanent decisions about your life. Seek professional help as soon as possible. A mental health professional can help you understand what's contributing to these thoughts and develop strategies to manage them. Many therapists offer same-day or emergency appointments for people experiencing suicidal thoughts. Remember that suicidal thoughts are often a sign that you're experiencing more pain than you have coping resources to handle right now. This doesn't mean the situation is hopeless—it means you need additional support and tools to manage your emotional pain. Consider what has helped you cope with difficult times in the past, and try to use those strategies now. This might include calling a friend, taking a warm bath, listening to music, going for a walk, or engaging in any activity that has previously provided comfort or distraction. If you're struggling with ongoing suicidal thoughts, know that treatment is effective and that many people who have felt this way have gone on to live fulfilling lives. Major depressive disorder and suicidal thoughts are treatable conditions, and with proper support, you can feel better. Crisis resources include: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text), Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741), or your local emergency services. These resources are confidential, free, and available 24/7.