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What It Means

What Suicidal Thoughts Mean

Suicidal thoughts, also called suicidal ideation, are thoughts about dying, ending your life, or not wanting to be alive. They may be passive, such as wishing you would not wake up, or active, such as thinking about how or when you might die. Some people may have a specific plan or intention, while others may feel uncertain that they would act. Any occurrence of suicidal thoughts or suicidal tendencies deserves prompt, compassionate support, even if you are unsure you would do anything.

Emergency Warning Signs

Get Immediate Help for Suicidal Thoughts

Act now

If you may act on these thoughts

Call your local emergency services or a crisis line now, or go to the nearest emergency department, if you have an immediate intention to die, a specific plan, access to lethal means, have started self-harm, cannot stay safe, or are worried someone else may act. Do not stay alone: ask a trusted person to remain with you, and move away from medicines, weapons, or other dangerous items if you can do so without putting anyone at risk.

  • Use the crisis resource for your country; in the United States or Canada, call or text 988.
  • If danger is imminent, contact emergency services immediately.
  • Online information cannot replace urgent, in-person help.

If you are suicidal or concerned about someone, use the appropriate crisis resource for your country and explain clearly what is happening. When there is immediate danger, contact emergency services now rather than relying on online information.

Possible Causes

Possible Causes and Contributing Factors

  • Depression and other mood disorders can affect mood, hope, judgment, and the ability to cope.
  • Trauma, grief, abuse, or a major loss may create intense emotional pain or a sense that life will not improve.
  • Severe anxiety, psychosis, or overwhelming emotional distress can make thoughts and feelings feel unbearable.
  • Chronic pain, serious illness, or disabling symptoms may contribute to hopelessness and suicidal ideation.
  • Alcohol or drug use, including withdrawal, can increase impulsivity and worsen emotional distress.
  • Relationship, housing, financial, legal, or work-related crises can create acute stress and feelings of being trapped.
  • Social isolation, discrimination, or bullying may reduce support and intensify emotional pain.
  • Previous suicidal behavior or exposure to suicide can increase risk and requires careful professional attention.

Suicidal thoughts often arise from several interacting factors rather than one single cause. They can occur with or without a diagnosed mental health condition, and having a contributing factor does not by itself establish a diagnosis. A clinician can assess immediate safety, suicidal ideation, and underlying mental health, physical health, substance-related, or life circumstances that may need support.

Diseases & Conditions

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