When you’re feeling suicidal, it can be difficult to know what to do.
You may feel like you want to die, but you also don’t want to suffer through the pain of suicide.
This is a common feeling known as passive suicidal ideation. If you’re experiencing these thoughts, don’t worry – you’re not alone.
In this article, we will discuss 7 things that can help you when you’re feeling suicidal but don’t want to die.
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What Exactly is Suicidal Ideation?
Before we dive into the nine things you can do, let’s first take a step back and understand what suicidal ideation is.
Suicidal ideation refers to any thoughts about suicide – from mild to severe.
These thoughts can range from fleeting and passing ideas to fully developed plans.
For some people, suicidal thoughts are just that – thoughts. They may never act on them or even come close to doing so.
For others, suicidal ideation can lead to suicide attempts or completed suicides.
Suicidal ideation is a serious issue and should not be ignored. If you’re experiencing any thoughts about suicide, it’s important to reach out for help.
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The Difference Between Active Suicidal Ideation & Passive Suicidal Ideation
There are two types of suicidal ideation – active and passive.
What is Passive Suicidal Ideation?
Passive suicidal ideation is when someone has thoughts about suicide, but does not have any active plans to commit suicide.
This can be contrasted with active suicidal ideation, which is when someone is actively planning how to commit suicide.
Passive suicidal ideation is more common than active suicidal ideation. It is often seen as a precursor to active suicidal ideation and can be a warning sign that someone is at risk for suicide.
Passive suicidal ideation can be caused by a number of factors, including mental illness, substance abuse, and trauma.
If you are experiencing passive suicidal thoughts, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional. With treatment, you can learn how to manage your thoughts and feelings and reduce your risk for suicide.
What is Active Suicidal Ideation?
Active Suicidal Ideation refers to a state in which an individual is actively thinking about harming themselves.
This can manifest in a number of ways, including making preparations for suicide, researching methods of self-harm, and expressing a desire to hurt oneself.
While Active Suicidal Ideation is often considered to be a precursor to actual suicide attempts, it is important to note that not all individuals who experience Active Suicidal Ideation will go on to attempt or complete suicide.
However, Active Suicidal Ideation is still a serious mental health concern, and individuals who are experiencing these thoughts should seek professional help as soon as possible.
Untreated Active Suicidal Ideation can lead to increased feelings of isolation and hopelessness, which can, in turn, increase the risk of suicide.
If you or someone you know is experiencing Active Suicidal Ideation, please reach out for help.
What Does It Mean To Feel like you don’t want to live, but you don’t want to die
Feeling like you want to die but not wanting to die can be a difficult thing to explain to someone who has never experienced it.
On the surface, it may seem contradictory, but for those who have been through it, it’s completely understandable.
When you’re in that dark place, death seems like the only way out. It’s an escape from the pain and suffering that you’re currently experiencing.
At the same time, you don’t actually want to die. You still have things that you want to do and people that you care about.
You don’t want to leave them behind, but you feel like you have no other choice. It’s a seemingly impossible situation that can leave you feeling hopeless and alone.
If you or someone you know is feeling this way, it’s important to reach out for help. There is always another way out of the pain.
7 Things to Do When You Feel Like You Want to Die?
Now that we’ve discussed what it means to want to die but not want to die, let’s talk about what you can do if you’re feeling this way.
If you find yourself in a place where death seems like the only way out, it’s important to remember that there is always help available.
Here are seven things that you can do if you’re feeling like you want to die:
1. Seek Therapy
It’s normal to feel down from time to time, but if you find yourself feeling like you don’t want to live, but you don’t want to die, it’s important to seek out a mental health professional.
This is especially true if you’re having thoughts of harming yourself or someone else.
A mental health professional (Browse Therapist Here) can help assess your situation and provide you with the resources and support you need.
They can also help connect you with other professionals, like a therapist, if needed.
If you’re not sure where to start, your primary care doctor can usually provide a referral. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help when you need it.
2. Don’t be ashamed to ask for help
It can be difficult to talk about feeling like you don’t want to live, but you don’t want to die.
You may feel ashamed, like you’re not supposed to feel this way or that you should be able to deal with it on your own.
But it’s important to remember that these feelings are real and valid, and you deserve to get help if you’re struggling.
There are people who care about you and want to help, so please don’t be afraid to reach out.
If you need someone to talk to, there are plenty of hotlines and online resources available.
You are not alone in this, and there is help available. Please reach out if you need it.
3. Talk to someone you trust about how you’re feeling
It can be difficult to talk about how you’re feeling when you’re in a dark place. You may feel like you’re a burden to everyone around you, or that no one could possibly understand what you’re going through.
But it’s important to reach out for help when you’re struggling. When you open up to someone you trust, they can provide support and understanding.
They may be able to offer practical advice, or simply be a shoulder to cry on. Talking about your feelings can also help to lessen the burden of them.
So if you’re feeling like you don’t want to live but you don’t want to die, reach out to someone who can help.
Whether it’s a friend, family member, therapist, or hotline, there are people who care and are ready to listen.
4. Find a community treatment program
If you’re struggling with suicidal thoughts, it’s important to get professional help.
One way to do this is by finding a community treatment program. These programs are designed to provide support and resources for those who are struggling with mental health issues.
They can offer individual and group therapy, medication management, and other services.
Community treatment programs can be a great way to get the help you need.
If you’re not sure where to start, your doctor or a mental health professional can usually provide a referral.
Don’t hesitate to reach out for help when you need it.
5. Talk to your school social worker
If you’re a student, you may be able to talk to your school social worker about how you’re feeling.
They can provide support and resources, and connect you with other professionals if needed.
Talking to your school social worker is a great way to get the help you need.
If you’re not sure where to find your school social worker, you can usually find them in the guidance office.
Don’t hesitate to reach out for help when you need it.
6. Dial 9-1-1
Feeling like you don’t want to live, but you don’t want to die, is a sign that you may be experiencing suicidal thoughts.
If you are having these thoughts, it’s important to reach out for help. One way to get help is to call 911.
When you call 911, a trained professional will be able to talk to you about what you’re feeling and connect you with resources that can help.
If you’re not ready to call 911, there are other resources available, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. If you feel like you don’t want to live, but you don’t want to die, please reach out for help.
7. Go to the nearest emergency room
When you feel like you don’t want to live but you don’t want to die, it’s important to seek professional help immediately.
The best place to do this is at your nearest emergency room. Here, the staff will be able to assess your situation and provide you with the necessary care and support.
If you are feeling suicidal, they will be able to provide you with crisis intervention and connect you with resources that can help you get through this difficult time.
Remember, you are not alone and there is help available. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
How to Help Someone Who Is Feeling Suicidal
It can be difficult to watch someone you care about struggle with their mental health. When they express feelings of hopelessness or despair, it can be tempting to try to talk them out of it or tell them to snap out of it.
However, it’s important to remember that these feelings are real and valid, and that the best thing you can do is listen and offer support.
If you’re not sure what to say, you can start by asking how they’re doing and if there’s anything you can do to help.
Let them know that you care about them and want to see them succeed. From there, you can offer to connect them with resources like therapy or counseling.
Finally, encourage them to keep moving forward day by day, even if it feels impossible. Helping someone through a tough time can be challenging, but it’s also an immensely rewarding experience.
Non-Profits To Reach Out To When Feeling Suicidal
If you’re looking for ways to get involved in suicide prevention, there are many great non-profit organizations doing important work in this area.
Here are some of the best:
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide.
AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health through education and community programs, develops suicide prevention through research and advocacy, and provides support for those affected by suicide.
AFSP promotes the message that suicide prevention is everyone’s business, and they work with a variety of partners to get their message out to as many people as possible.
Through their efforts, they hope to reduce the stigma around mental illness and make it easier for people to talk about their mental health.
In addition, AFSP works to educate the public about the warning signs of suicide and how to get help if someone is in crisis.
They also provide support for survivors of suicide loss and advocate for public policies that prevent suicide.
AFSP is making a difference in the fight against suicide, and they will continue to work tirelessly until suicide is no longer a major public health problem.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a confidential hotline for individuals in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.
It provides 24/7 support from trained counselors. The Lifeline is available to everyone, and it’s free and confidential.
You can call 1-800-273-8255 to speak with someone about your feelings or concerns. You can also chat online with a counselor at any time.
The Lifeline’s goal is to provide support and resources so that people in crisis can get the help they need and want.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is part of the larger suicide prevention community, which includes many partners dedicated to preventing suicide.
These partners include mental health organizations, crisis centers, government agencies, and more. Together, we can help people in crisis get the support they need and save lives.
If you are worried about someone you know, please don’t hesitate to reach out for help. We are here for you 24/7.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
The National Alliance on Mental Illness is a nonprofit organization that provides support and advocacy for those affected by mental illness.
NAMI offers educational programs, support groups, and referrals to mental health services. The organization also advocates for policies that support mental health treatment and research.
NAMI strives to reduce the stigma around mental illness and provide information about treatment options.
The organization’s goal is to improve the lives of those affected by mental illness and their families.
NAMI was founded in 1979 by family members of people with mental illness. Since then, the organization has grown to include more than 600 affiliate organizations across the country.
NAMI provides support and resources for individuals, families, and communities affected by mental illness.
The organization’s website offers information about different types of mental illness, treatment options, and how to find support.
NAMI also offers an online community for those affected by mental illness. The community provides a safe space to share experiences, offer support, and connect with others who understand what it’s like to live with a mental illness.
Samaritans USA
Samaritans USA is a national suicide prevention organization that operates 24/7 crisis hotline services.
It also offers online and text-based crisis counseling services. The organization’s goal is to provide confidential emotional support to anyone in need, anytime, anywhere.
Samaritans USA’s services are available to everyone, regardless of age, race, religion, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
The organization’s Crisis Hotline provides a safe space for callers to talk about whatever is causing them distress.
Samaritans USA also offers support for survivors of suicide loss and those who are worried about someone they care about.
The organization’s website provides resources and information on suicide prevention and mental health.
Samaritans USA is committed to providing confidential, nonjudgmental support to anyone in need. The organization’s services are available 24/7 by calling 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
SAVE
SAVE (Suicide Awareness Voices of Education) is a national non-profit organization dedicated to suicide prevention.
SAVE works to raise awareness about suicide and its prevention, provide support and resources for those affected by suicide, and promote policies and programs that will help to reduce the incidence of suicide.
One of SAVE’s key initiatives is its public education campaign, which aims to educate people about the warning signs of suicide and how to get help.
The campaign includes a series of PSAs that feature celebrities talking about their own experiences with suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
In addition to its public education efforts, SAVE also provides support and resources for those who have been affected by suicide.
The organization offers a 24/7 crisis line, as well as online resources and support groups.
SAVE also advocates for policies and programs that can help to prevent suicide, such as gun control measures and access to mental health care.
Crisis Text Line
Crisis Text Line is a free 24/7 crisis counseling service for people in the US. It provides support for those experiencing anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, and other mental health issues.
The service is confidential and anonymous, and all conversations are conducted via text message.
Crisis Text Line is staffed by trained counselors who provide support, resources, and referrals as needed.
The service is available to anyone in the US, and no matter what your crisis or situation may be, there is always someone to talk to. If you or someone you know is in need of support, please reach out to Crisis Text Line today.
The Jed Foundation (JED)
The Jed Foundation (JED) is a national nonprofit that exists to protect emotional health and prevent suicide for our nation’s teens and young adults.
JED develops and implements prevention and intervention programs, provides mental health education and support, and advocates for public policies that promote mental health and wellness.
JED works with middle schools, high schools, colleges, and communities nationwide to create a more supportive environment for young people.
Their work addresses key factors that put young people at risk for mental health issues or suicide, including stigma, isolation, stress, and substance abuse.
JED also trains young people to become leaders in their own communities through JEDCampuses and JEDConnects programs.
In addition to their prevention work, JED also runs the LifeSet program, which provides intensive support to young adults who are struggling with mental health issues or post-traumatic stress.
LifeSet pairs each participant with a trained mentor who provides guidance and support as they navigate adulthood. JED’s ultimate goal is to help young people live mentally healthy and safe lives.
The Trevor Project
The Trevor Project is a national organization that provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people under the age of 25.
Through a variety of programs and services, The Trevor Project works to provide support for LGBTQ youth in times of need.
One of the most well-known programs offered by The Trevor Project is Trevor Lifeline, which is a 24/7 crisis counseling service available to LGBTQ young people who are in need of support.
Other programs offered by The Trevor Project include TrevorChat, TrevorSpace, and TrevorText.
These services provide LGBTQ young people with a safe place to connect with others who may be going through similar experiences.
The ultimate goal of The Trevor Project is to reduce the rate of suicide among LGBTQ young people.
To Write Love on Her Arms
To Write Love on Her Arms is a nonprofit organization that provides support to people struggling with mental health issues and addiction.
The organization was founded in 2006 by Jamie Tworkowski, and it has since grown to include chapters in multiple states across the country.
To Write Love on Her Arms offers a variety of resources, including online mental health screenings, crisis intervention services, and educational resources.
The organization also hosts annual conferences and events, which provide opportunities for people to connect with others who are facing similar challenges.
To Write Love on Her Arms is committed to destigmatizing mental health issues and providing hope and healing to those who are struggling.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, please reach out to To Write Love on Her Arms for help.
FAQ About Suicide
Below are some frequently asked questions about suicide. If you or someone you know is in need of help, please reach out to a suicide hotline in your country for support.
What are some warning signs that someone may be considering suicide?
Some warning signs that someone may be considering suicide include talking about wanting to die or hurt oneself, expressing feelings of hopelessness, talking about being a burden to others, increasing alcohol or drug abuse, withdrawing from friends and activities, abnormal mood swings, and giving away prized possessions.
What should I do if I think someone is considering suicide?
If you think someone is considering suicide, the best thing to do is to talk to them about it. Let them know that you are there for them and that they are not alone. You can also offer to help them get professional help if they need it.
If someone I know dies by suicide, what should I do?
If someone you know dies by suicide, it is important to seek professional help to deal with your grief. You can also reach out to a suicide hotline in your country for support.
What are some ways to prevent suicide?
Some ways to prevent suicide include talking about mental health and suicidal thoughts openly, destigmatizing mental illness, and providing support to those who are struggling. You can also reach out to a suicide hotline in your country for help.
If you or someone you know is in need of help, please reach out to a suicide hotline in your country for support.
What should I do if someone expresses that they want to die?
If someone expresses that they want to die, the best thing to do is to talk to them about it. Let them know that you are there for them and that they are not alone.
You can also offer to help them get professional help if they need it.
What if I’m feeling suicidal?
If you are feeling suicidal, the best thing to do is to reach out for help. You can call a suicide hotline in your country for support.
You can also talk to your doctor or a mental health professional about how you’re feeling. Remember that you are not alone and there is help available.
What are some warnings that someone will follow through on suicide?
Some warnings that someone will follow through on suicide include talking about wanting to die or hurt oneself, expressing feelings of hopelessness, talking about being a burden to others, increasing alcohol or drug abuse, withdrawing from friends and activities, abnormal mood swings, and giving away prized possessions.
If you are worried about someone, it is best to reach out and talk to them about it. You can also offer to help them get professional help if they need it.
What are some local resources for someone considering suicide?
Some local resources for someone considering suicide include mental health clinics, crisis intervention services, and educational resources. You can also reach out to a suicide hotline in your country for support.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, please reach out to To Write Love on Her Arms for help.