Thoughts of suicide, or of not wanting to be alive, are more common than many people realise. They tend to arise when pain has become so great that the mind starts looking for a way out. They do not mean that you will act on them, and they are not a character failing. They are a signal that something needs attention urgently.
If you are having thoughts of suicide, you do not need to face them alone, and you do not need to be in immediate crisis to seek support.
If you are in immediate danger
If you are at risk of acting on thoughts of suicide right now, please:
- Call Samaritans on 116 123 (free, 24 hours, every day)
- Text SHOUT to 85258 for free, confidential text support
- Call 111 and select the mental health option
- Go to your nearest A&E or call 999
How therapy can help
Therapy for suicidal ideation is not just about crisis management. It is about understanding what has brought you to this point, and working carefully and collaboratively toward something that feels more liveable. At Inner Space, we take these conversations seriously and without alarm. We will not judge you for having these thoughts, and we will not dismiss them.
We work alongside GP and psychiatric support where appropriate, and we will always be honest with you about what therapy can and cannot offer.
This work connects with depression, trauma, self-esteem, and for younger clients, our adolescent therapy service.
The NHS has guidance on getting help for suicidal thoughts.