There is no reason to be embarrassed if you are feeling suicidal. A lot of people go through the same feeling as you do. This article gives you tips on how to cope with suicidal thoughts and feelings.
Almost everyone, at sometime in their life, have to face extremely difficult situations, which can become a cause of depression. It is how they deal with this pain that can sometimes be the difference between life and death. The reason for wanting to commit suicide differs from person to person, what may be bearable by some, may be too much for others. If you are having thoughts of suicide right now, do not act on it, it is just a thought and will soon pass. It is common to get negative thoughts, during trying times and seek escape. Moreover, remember that you do not have to face this situation, alone. Help is round the corner, reach out.
Coping with Suicidal Thoughts
If you are having suicidal feelings right now, then call 1-800-273-TALK if you are in the US and if you are outside the US, go to www.befrienders.org to get details of a helpline in your area.
Keep your Home Safe
Put away anything with which you could harm yourself, such as blades, pills, knives, gun or any other such items. If you find it difficult to do that, go someplace where you will be safe. As far as possible, avoid being alone, try to be around people all the time. Each time you get these thoughts, think of what makes you happy and do that or meet someone who makes you feel good and safe.
Avoid Alcohol and Drugs
Refrain from consuming alcohol or drugs, it will definitely not help you cope with suicidal thoughts and feelings. Instead, it will trigger negative feelings and you will lose control over yourself; you will end up doing something that you normally wouldn’t do. When you feel low, rest, exercise, meet friends or go for a walk. Spend time doing things that make you happy, you will find that there are very few things that make you happy. Think of what made you happy before you felt this way and do that, also, avoid taking any medication on your own.
Talk to Family and Friends
The most important thing to do is to TALK to someone, do not try to deal with it alone. Talk to a family member or a friend, anyone you are comfortable sharing your feelings with. They will give you a better perspective of the situation and may offer solutions to your problem.
Call a Helpline
Many a time, you may be apprehensive to talk to close ones, due to the fear of being ridiculed, in that case, you can call a helpline. These helplines offer help round the clock, you will be surprised at how easy it is, to discuss your issues with a stranger. You can also write to them, they will listen to you without judging you. They will not give you a solution to your problems, but help you figure it out yourself.
Think about Reasons to Not Commit Suicide
Make a list of all the things that you want to do, it will give you reasons to ‘not commit suicide’. Did you want to learn guitar as a child? When will you go on your dream holiday? Have you been thinking of trying bungee jumping or that exotic Mexican delicacy? Did you miss out on your favorite actor’s last movie or have you been thinking of reading a particular book for a long time? There is a lot to see and experience, make a list of your personal goals. Think of how your absence will affect your loved ones, it will discourage you from taking this drastic step.
Challenge your Negative Thoughts
There are many ways to stop thinking negative. Each time you get a thought of suicide, tell yourself to stop thinking. It is your mind and you can control what you think. Avoid being alone and doing anything that makes you low. Listening to sad songs, looking at old pictures, reading a morbid book or being around someone negative will only increase your suicidal feeling. There are several ways to change your mood:
- Write down how you feel.
- Play with your pet.
- Read a nice book.
- Watch your favorite comedy flick.
- Buy yourself flowers.
- Listen to soothing music.
- Light some aromatic candles.
Seek Medical Help
If none of these strategies work, get medical help immediately; consult a doctor, who will be able to help you cope with suicidal thoughts. Doctors might give you antidepressant pills or ask you to undergo counseling and other therapies depending on your condition.
Whenever you have thoughts of suicide, remember that you are not the only person going through this. There is no reason to feel bad about yourself nor do you have to deal with this on your own. Trying times do not last forever and most importantly help is available. Getting help does not mean that you are weak or incapable, it just means that you value your life and want to save yourself. Do not act on impulse, talk to someone right now.
