Suicide refers to deliberate actions to cause harm to one’s self that will result in death. Suicidal thoughts or actions are a sign that someone is experiencing extreme emotional distress. They may feel overwhelmed or without other options to lessen their pain.
Although it is not possible to predict suicide with any certainty, our best tool is recognition of the signs that many people exhibit when contemplating suicide:
- Talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself
- Looking for a way to kill oneself, such as searching online or obtaining a gun
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
These behaviors should prompt you to seek immediate help for you or a loved one. If you are suicidal or are a danger to yourself to others, please call 9-1-1 or visit your nearest emergency room immediately.
Talking about suicide is the best way to prevent it. If you or someone you know needs help:
- Call 1.800.273.8255 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
- Text HELLO to 741-741 for free, 24-hour support from the Crisis Text Line
- Outside of the US, visit the International Association for Suicide Prevention for a database of resources
- Contact your mental health professional
- Call McLean Hospital at 800.333.0338 for information on admission