I'm Thinking of Suicide. How Can I Get Help?

I'm thinking about suicide. With what is going on with my life, it seems to be the only choice I have. How can I get help?
– Jake*

If you have been thinking about suicide, it is important to get help right away.

If you need to talk with someone right now, resources are available 24/7 to help you by calling or texting:

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call 1-800-273-8255 or text or call 988. You also can contact them through their website.
• Trevor Lifeline for LGBTQ community: Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678678. You can also contact them through their website.

These toll-free lines are staffed by people who are trained to help you without ever knowing your name or seeing your face. The calls are confidential.

If you feel you are in immediate danger of hurting yourself, call 911 or drive to the nearest emergency room.

If you do not need to talk with someone right now, plan to talk to someone you trust as soon as you can, preferably a parent or other caring, responsible adult in your life. Talk to someone like a coach, school counselor, religious leader, or teacher if you feel more comfortable talking to someone outside your family.

Start the conversation by saying, "I've been having a tough time lately, and I've been thinking about suicide. I need your help." Then, you can work together to find ways to get the help and support you need in this difficult time.

Remember, you are never alone and there are always ways to get help for yourself.

*Names have been changed to protect user privacy.