Understanding Suicidal Thoughts and Staying Safe

Suicidal thoughts can feel frightening, overwhelming, and deeply isolating. But it’s important to know that you are not alone if you ever experience them. Many people, more than we often realise (in fact currently it's estimated 1 in 4), have thoughts of not wanting to be here anymore at some point in their lives. For some, these thoughts pass quickly; for others, they may come and go during times of stress, loss, or emotional pain.

Having suicidal thoughts does not mean you are weak or broken, it means you are struggling and in need of care, support, and compassion.

Why Suicidal Thoughts Happen

Suicidal thoughts are usually a response to pain that feels unbearable or never-ending. They can arise from depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, or life circumstances that feel overwhelming. Often, they are less about truly wanting life to end, and more about wanting the pain to stop.

Understanding this difference is important, it means that with the right support and coping strategies, there is hope for things to feel different.

Coping with Suicidal Thoughts

If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, here are some gentle steps that may help:

Acknowledge your feelings: Try not to judge yourself for having these thoughts. They are a sign of distress, not failure.
Ground yourself in the present: Simple techniques like deep breathing, holding a comforting object, or noticing five things around you can help calm overwhelming emotions.
Create a safety plan: Write down who you can call, where you can go, and what helps when the thoughts feel strongest. Having this written can be grounding and comforting.
Reach out: Talking about suicidal thoughts can feel scary, but sharing what you’re going through with someone you trust can reduce the intensity of the feelings.

The Importance of Reaching Out for Help, and Staying Safe

Suicidal thoughts thrive in silence. Speaking them aloud, whether to a trusted friend, family member, or professional, can be the first step towards healing.

If you ever feel like you are in immediate danger of acting on your thoughts, it’s important to call emergency services (999 in the UK) or go to A&E. For urgent but non-emergency support, you can also call NHS 111 or Samaritans at 116 123 (available 24/7).

There are also organisations like Papyrus, Young Minds, Grassroots, and the Stay Alive App (on this App you can create a Safety Plan). All useful resources for for suicidal thoughts.

Supporting Someone Who is Having Suicidal Thoughts

If someone close to you shares that they are thinking about suicide, it can feel daunting, but your support can make a huge difference.

Listen without judgement: Let them speak, and resist the urge to immediately “fix” things.
Take them seriously: Don’t dismiss their feelings or tell them to “cheer up.” Acknowledge their pain.
Encourage professional help: Gently suggest they talk to a counsellor, GP, or helpline.
Stay connected: Regular check-ins, even a simple message, can remind them that they are not alone.

A Final Thought

Suicidal thoughts can make the world feel hopeless and dark, but they do not define you, and they do not have to be permanent. With the right support and connection, there is a way forward. If you or someone you care about is struggling, please reach out. Help is available, and you don’t have to face this alone, and things can get better.