Suicide

When emotional pain feels greater than your ability to cope, thoughts of self-harm may surface. These thoughts are temporary, even when they feel permanent.

Risk factors

Certain conditions and experiences can increase risk for suicide, including:

• Alcohol or substance use disorders
• Chronic illness or pain
• Depression or other mental health conditions
• Family history of suicide
• Limited social or emotional support
• Past suicide attempts
• Stressful or traumatic life events

Warning signs

If you notice these warning signs in yourself or someone else, reach out for support right away. It’s always better to check in and offer support. A simple act of connection can save a life.

• Acting recklessly or increasing substance use
• Expressing unbearable emotional pain
• Searching for ways to harm oneself
• Withdrawing from friends or family
• Showing sudden mood changes or intense anger
• Talking about wanting to die or feeling hopeless

A personal crisis plan helps keep you safe when distress feels overwhelming. Create your plan when you’re feeling well, and share it with people you trust. Keep your plan somewhere easy to find, like in your phone, on your nightstand, or in your wallet. 

Update it regularly with the following information:

• Warning signs that your distress is increasing, such as isolating yourself, losing sleep, or having thoughts of self-harm.
• Reasons to live that remind you what matters most, including loved ones, pets, personal goals, or experiences you still want to have.
• Healthy distractions that help you cope, like taking a walk, listening to music, watching a favorite show, or calling a friend.
• Coping strategies you can use anywhere, such as deep breathing, meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, or grounding techniques.
• People you trust with their names and phone numbers, including friends, family, or anyone who makes you feel safe.
• Professional contacts who can support you, such as your therapist, psychiatrist, primary care provider, or crisis lines like 988.
• Important documents to keep in one place, including your medication list, insurance cards, and previous treatment notes.
   

Grieving after losing someone to suicide can feel almost unbearable. Remember that there’s no single “right” way to heal. What matters most is finding what helps you cope and begin to rebuild. 

Many people experience a mix of sadness, guilt, anger, confusion, and even relief. These emotions can come and go unexpectedly, and that’s okay. Healing often takes time, compassion, and the willingness to reach out for support.

Speak with a therapist or grief counselor

Talking with a licensed therapist or grief counselor who understands bereavement after suicide can help you process emotions in a healthy way. 

Therapy can offer a safe space to share your feelings, explore coping strategies, and learn how to adjust to life after loss. Family or group sessions can also help loved ones support each other through their shared grief.

Join a support group

Connecting with others who have also lost someone to suicide can bring comfort and understanding that’s hard to find elsewhere. In a support group, you can share your story, listen to others, and find strength in a caring community.

You can find national and local groups through the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.