Suicide is the act of intentionally taking your own life. If someone is having suicidal thoughts, they are thinking about taking their own life. These thoughts can be occasional, regular, or frequent. Some young people may make plans on how they will commit suicide, but do not actually of reach the point of carrying these plans out. Suicidal thoughts and feelings can result when we experience too much pain, without having enough resources to cope.
What Might Help?
- Talk to someone: Tell someone you trust how you are feeling, try and stay with or near people. You are not alone!
- Consider ways to reduce urges: Do something that will help you feel better, right now; perhaps collect items into an emergency bag, or box, that you can turn to; use all five senses to find things that will soothe you.
- Avoid unhelpful coping strategies: Avoid drugs and alcohol, and, anything you may harm yourself with.
- Tune into your thoughts: Consider whether negative thoughts are facts or an opinion, use positive coping statements.
- Seek professional help: Speak with your GP about support that can be offered to help you.
If you or your child feel that they are unable to keep themselves safe phone your GP or CAMHS single point of access for advice (01902 444021) or take your child to A&E or call 999 in an emergency.
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