Suicidal Thoughs

Suicidal thoughts mean thinking about ending your life. People who have thoughts like this can be helped. A lot of people have felt suicidal at one point and, with support, have got through it.

If you are having suicidal thoughts it’s very important that you talk to an adult you trust, your therapist or GP. If you are worried that you can’t keep yourself safe you should go to your local hospital accident and emergency (A&E) department.

There's no right or wrong way to talk about suicidal feelings – starting the conversation is what's important.

If you find it difficult to talk to someone you know, you could:

  • call a GP – ask for an emergency appointment
  • call 111 out of hours – they will help you find the support and help you need

If you have seriously harmed yourself – for example, by taking a drug overdose – or you feel that you may be about to harm yourself, call 999 for an ambulance or go straight to A&E.

The CNWL Single Point of Access provides support if you are having a mental health crisis and can be contacted on 0800 0234 650 or by emailing cnw-tr.spa@nhs.net

Alternatively, you can get help from the organisations below.

You can also contact the helplines below for help and support for yourself or if you’re worried about someone else.

Helplines for suicidal thoughts

Help and support is available right now if you need it. You do not have to struggle with difficult feelings alone. You can also contact these helplines for advice if you’re worried about someone else.

Samaritans – a confidential helpline available 24/7, call 116 123 for free

Papyrus – for children and young people under 35 available 9am-midnight everyday Call 0800 068 41 41, Text 07860 039967

Childline – for children and young people under 19. Call 0800 1111 – (the number will not show up on your phone bill)

YoungMinds Crisis Messenger –This service provides free, 24/7 crisis support across the UK. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis and need support, you can text YM to 85258.

  • try not to think about the future – just focus on getting through today
  • stay away from drugs and alcohol
  • get yourself to a safe place, like a friend's house
  • be around other people
  • do something you usually enjoy, such as spending time with a pet

See more tips from Rethink

If you're worried about someone, try to get them to talk to you. Ask open-ended questions like: "How do you feel about...?"

Do not worry about having the answers. Just listening to what someone has to say and taking it seriously can be more helpful.

See Samaritans' tips on how to support someone you're worried about

Read Rethink's advice on how to support someone who is having suicidal thoughts