Suicide prevention tips for kids and teens

Many people who have attempted suicide and survived say that they attempted it because they felt there was no other solution to a problem they were having or no other way to end their pain. Remember that no matter how hopeless you feel right now, these emotions will pass. It can get better.

Get help

If your bad feelings or pain become so overwhelming that you can’t see any solution besides harming or killing yourself or others, you need to get help right away. Tell a trusted adult. If talking to a stranger seems easier for you, call 1-800-273-TALK or text “HOME” to 741741.

Having thoughts of hurting yourself or others does not make you a bad person

Depression can make you think and feel things that are unlike you. It does not mean you are a bad person; it just shows how badly you are hurting. Getting help can decrease these unwelcome thoughts.

If your feelings are overwhelming, tell yourself to wait 24 hours

This can give you time to really think things through and to see if those strong feelings get a tiny bit easier to handle. During this 24-hour period, try to talk to someone — anyone — as long as they are not someone else feeling suicidal or depressed. Tell a parent, relative, family friend, or teacher. Or, if talking to a stranger feels easier to handle, call a hotline or text a text line. Remember: there are likely several solutions to whatever problem you are having.

If you’re afraid you can’t stop yourself, make sure you are never alone

Even if you feel like you can’t talk about your feelings, stay in public places, hang out with friends or family members or go to a movie—do anything you can to keep from being by yourself and in danger.