Suicidal thoughts

When you need help now

If you feel at risk of harming yourself, have made the decision to commit suicide, have begun to prepare for it, or are unsure if you can stay safe, seek emergency help now.

Call 103 in Ukraine or go to your nearest emergency department.

If possible:

don't be alone;

directly tell a loved one that you are having suicidal thoughts;

go to where other people are nearby;

limit access to potentially dangerous objects, medications and other means of self-harm;

Avoid drinking alcohol or other substances that may increase impulsivity and impair behavioural control.

What is important to know

Suicidal thoughts can arise during intense emotional distress, when a person feels that the situation will not change and there is no other way to end their suffering.

In times of severe crisis, the ability to see alternatives may be significantly reduced. The feeling of “there is no way out” can be very persuasive, but it reflects the person’s current state and does not mean that help or other options truly do not exist.

It is important to distinguish thoughts from intentions. Having a suicidal thought does not automatically mean a person will act on it. However, the risk increases if thoughts become more frequent and specific, an intention to act or preparations for suicide develop, or the person finds it increasingly difficult to keep themselves safe.

What to pay attention to

How long ago did you have suicidal thoughts?

How often do they occur and do they become more intense?

Are you able to switch or are your thoughts becoming more and more persistent?

Do you have a desire to die or an intention to commit suicide?

Have specific plans or preparatory actions emerged?

Do you feel like you might lose control of your behaviour?

Are there significant feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, or guilt?

Did the thought arise that those around you “would be better off without you?”

Has social isolation increased?

Has it become more difficult to do normal things and take care of yourself.

Whether alcohol or other substances are used.

Have you ever self-harmed or attempted suicide?

Is there anyone you can turn to for support right now?

What can help

Suicidal thoughts should not be experienced alone. Even if a person is sure that they are not going to do anything, it is important to talk to a psychiatrist, psychotherapist, family doctor or other mental health professional about them.

There is no need to wait until the thoughts become “serious enough.” The sooner a person receives help, the greater the opportunity to reduce the intensity of the crisis and deal with the condition that is behind suicidal thoughts.

You can also tell a loved one about what is happening and agree who to contact if your condition worsens.

Together with a specialist, you can create a safety plan: identify the signs of an approaching crisis, actions that will help you get through the most difficult period, people and services you can turn to, and ways to make the environment safer.

When to ask for help

If you have suicidal thoughts, you should contact a mental health professional, even if there is no specific plan or intention to act.

Do not delay consultation if thoughts are repeated, intensified, expressed hopelessness, a desire to isolate, or a feeling that there is no point in living further.

Emergency help is needed if:

there is an intention to end your life;

a specific plan has been formed;

preparatory actions began;

there has been a recent suicide attempt;

the person is in a state of severe intoxication or severe agitation against the background of suicidal thoughts;

you are not sure that you can maintain your own safety.

In such a situation, call 103 in Ukraine or go to the nearest emergency department. If possible, do not be alone.