Suicide prevention
If you're thinking about suicide, or worried about someone who might be, help is available right now.
What it is
Thoughts of suicide are more common than the silence around them suggests, and having them doesn't mean someone is broken or doomed to act on them. They're a sign of pain that's outgrown someone's current coping resources — and that's treatable.
Good to know
Asking someone directly whether they're thinking about suicide does not plant the idea or increase risk — research consistently shows the opposite: it gives someone permission to be honest, which is often the first relief they've had in a while.
What helps
Talking to someone, anyone, right away interrupts the isolation that makes suicidal thoughts feel unbearable and unshareable. Safety planning — removing access to means, staying with someone, having a clear next call to make — keeps a hard night survivable until it passes.
When to seek help
Right now, if you're having these thoughts: call or text 988, or call 811. If someone else is in immediate danger, call 911 and stay with them until help arrives.
This page is general information, not a diagnosis or medical advice. If you're in crisis, go to Get Help Now instead of reading further.