Suicide Prevention

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger:

Advice from IndoPsyCare clinician-scientists

Considering suicide marks the lowest point in your life. You’re at rock bottom. Please find comfort in knowing there is no way to go but up

Suicide is preventable

You are not the first nor will you be the last person to feel like taking your own life. Clothes have made it through this… You have the choice to live to tell your story

The idea that talking about suicide increases the likelihood of suicide is a myth, talk about it, don’t keep it all inside

You might think no one cares. I am a stranger, and I care. There are many professionals like myself who can guide you through this time

You are not to blame for how you feel. Whatever happened that led up to this moment is not worth taking your own life

These times are scary, but you do not have to go through them alone. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, it is a testament to your strength

Maybe life doesn’t seem worth living right now. Maybe the things are difficult - but there’s a possibility things might not always be this way

If you experience the urge to end your life, immediately seek out professional help from friends, family, or healthcare professionals

What is suicide?

Suicide may be defined as “the act of intentionally causing one’s own death, often related to complex stressors and health issues leading individuals to experience hopelessness and despair.” (Center for Addiction and Mental Health, 2023). Suicide should be differentiated from suicide ideation.

Suicide ideation may be defined as “thoughts about or a preoccupation with killing oneself…” (APA Dictionary of Psychology, 2023)

These may range from passing ideas such as:

Live is not worth living
No one would care if I died
The world would be better off without me
I would be better off dead

Facts about suicide

Reminder: You cannot continue to operate in crisis mode.

Although the aforementioned safety plan can help you in the short term, it is imperative that you see a doctor or mental health provider. These professionals can help address your suicidal thoughts and the underlying conditions that perpetuate them.

Helping someone who is suicidal: How to start a conversation about suicide

Remember: Treat people who have engaged in acts of self-harm with the same care, respect and privacy as anyone else. Whilst it is important to be sensitive to the emotional distress associated with self-harm, do not treat these individuals as though they are made of glass.

The notion that talking about suicide increases the probability of someone committing suicide is a myth. Conversely, talking about suicide can help you encourage individuals to get the help they need.