If You Are Having Suicide Thoughts

Is thinking about suicide normal?

Everyone feels sad, angry, or depressed sometimes, especially when the stress of relationships, exams, and friends gets overwhelming.  Sometimes those feelings of sadness or helplessness just don't let up.  The reality is that many teenagers think about suicide in order to deal with the confusing and harsh inequities of teen life.  Simply having the thought of suicide run through your mind and understanding how situations can sometimes become overwhelming is fairly common.  Obsessing about suicide is, however, a big concern.

What if my thoughts about suicide are going too far and crossing the line and becoming obsessive?

If your thoughts of suicide are reoccurring and obsessive, you need to take action.

• SEEK HELP - The most important step is to seek help.  Talk to someone whom you trust.  Talking to a family member or friend can bring relief.   

Be aware, however, that in many cases, a friend or parent may have difficulty responding to you.  They may be frightened, embarrassed, or may pretend they don’t notice or hear you.  They might feel hurt because they think you are blaming them.  They may feel angry because they are being asked to deal with something they just can’t handle.  Remember, their reactions are about their fears, not about you,

But if the parent or friend you turn to for help doesn’t know how to help, you need to talk to someone who does know how.  There are trained professionals whose job is simply to talk with you and offer a non-judgmental response.  Trained counselors, doctors, and clergy staff can often be helpful. 

You can speak with a Crisis Center counselor at any time, day or night, by calling the Crisis Center at (205) 323-7777.

• TELL YOURSELF TO WAIT - Give yourself permission to wait on taking any actions that would move you closer to attempting a suicide.  Say this to yourself, “I will wait 24 hours, 3 days, or 1 week before I do anything.”  Put some space between your suicidal feelings and suicidal actions.  Feelings and actions are not the same things.  Feeling like killing yourself does not mean you actually have to do it.

What if I feel totally overwhelmed and fear that I can’t control my urge to commit suicide?

If you are fearful and unsure if you can control your actions, you need to take the following steps immediately:

• Call the Crisis Center at (205) 323-7777.

• If possible, notify a family member or friend and ask them to come and help you through this crisis.

• Seek medical attention:

  • If transportation is available, go to an emergency room at a hospital

  • If transportation is not available, call 911.

• When medical attention is obtained, be open and honest and tell the caregiver about you compulsion to commit suicide. 

  • Do not be ashamed.

  • Do not attempt to downplay the seriousness of your situation.  

  • Tell them exactly how you are feeling.  Do not hold back.

• Ask your family member or friend to stay with you until you receive medical attention and feel in control of your situation.