4 Things to Do When Hopelessness Strikes
Suicidal thoughts are more common than many people think. They are not limited to people with depression or those who have experienced trauma. Regardless of the root cause for your suicidal thoughts, it is important that you treat them as an emergency. Never take suicidal thoughts lightly even if you may feel you have no reason to be suicidal. When you are overcome with feelings of hopelessness or thoughts of suicide, here are a few things you can do.
In a Pinch, the National Suicide Hotline is Always Available
Many people who find themselves in crisis do not know where to turn. They may feel uncomfortable or unwilling to seek help from friends and family members. Fortunately, the National Suicide Hotline is a 24-hour crisis number to call when you feel you have nowhere else to go.
On the other end, you will be connected to a well-trained volunteer whose only job is to talk to and help you. They may also be able to refer you to some local resources for more consistent aid.
Contact a Supportive Loved One
One of the most helpful steps you can take is to open up to your loved ones about your struggles. A support network made up of friends and family is the best chance you have for overcoming this problem though a support group or counselor can absolutely be an effective option as well.
If you’re feeling hopeless or suicidal, contact someone who knows what you are going through and knows how to respond. Revealing your mental health problems in the middle of a crisis will only serve to cause panic in your loved one and prevent them from offering beneficial help. You need to open up to someone you trust and prepare them for the event that you may call them when things get bad.
Plan Self-Help
Recognizing that you have a problem with suicidal thoughts should be the trigger that tells you to seek help. There are many ways you can start planning to help yourself through this. Daily self-care such as improving diet, sleeping well, and meditating can all be great ways to cope with mental health problems.
However, you should always seek professional help. Though you can do many things to improve your health on your own, you should always use a professional to ensure your safety. Suicidal thoughts are not something to ignore. Contact a counselor.
Online Chatting is Similar to a Hotline
There are crisis websites that allow you to chat with a volunteer rather than talking on the phone. It can be easier to reach out for help through chat for some people as opposed to hearing a real person on the other end of a phone line. There are also free online counseling sessions that can be a great way to get started on receiving help.
There are many options for handling suicidal thoughts. Some more immediate responses could be emergency numbers or chat lines, while long-term care may involve creating a support network and seeking professional care. Regardless of what you should do, it is important to remember that you can overcome this and that things will get better. You just need to reach out and get help.
Image via Pixabay by ollis_picture
Jennifer Woodson
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