Step #1: Promise not to do anything right now
Even though you’re in a lot of pain right now, give
yourself some distance between thoughts and action. Make a promise to
yourself: "I will wait 24 hours and won't do anything drastic during
that time." Or, wait a week.
Thoughts and actions are two different things—your
suicidal thoughts do not have to become a reality. There’s is no
deadline, no one pushing you to act on these thoughts immediately.
Wait. Wait and put some distance between your suicidal thoughts and
suicidal action.
Step #2: Avoid drugs and alcohol
Suicidal thoughts can become even stronger if you
have taken drugs or alcohol. It is important to not use nonprescription
drugs or alcohol when you feel hopeless or are thinking about suicide.
Step #3: Make your home safe
Remove things you could use to hurt yourself, such
as pills, knives, razors, or firearms. If you are unable to do so, go
to a place where you can feel safe. If you are thinking of taking an
overdose, give your medicines to someone who can return them to you one
day at a time as you need them.
Step #4: Take hope – people DO get through this
Even people who feel as badly as you are feeling now
manage to survive these feelings. Take hope in this. There is a very
good chance that you are going to live through these feelings, no
matter how much self-loathing, hopelessness, or isolation you are
currently experiencing. Just give yourself the time needed and don’t try
to go it alone.
Step #5: Don’t keep these suicidal feelings to yourself
Many of us have found that the first step to coping
with suicidal thoughts and feelings is to share them with someone we
trust. It may be a friend, a therapist, a member of the clergy, a
teacher, a family doctor, a coach, or an experienced counselor at the
end of a helpline. Find someone you trust and let them know how bad
things are. Don’t let fear, shame, or embarrassment prevent you from
seeking help. Just talking about how you got to this point in your life
can release a lot of the pressure that’s building up and help you find
a way to cope.
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