It’s OK to Ask For Help
To believe in a brighter tomorrow, you don’t need to pretend things are fine today. Everyone struggles, but you aren’t alone in the struggle. Everyone should have access to the resources, relationships and care they need to navigate life’s difficulties without feeling isolated.
If you are in a crisis right now, you are not alone. Call 988 for mental health help, emotional crisis or if you’re having thoughts of suicide. Call 911 for police, fire or EMS response.
What To Do If You’re Struggling
Things may feel tough. They may feel hopeless and heavy. But that’s OK. If you’re struggling, you don’t have to wait for times of crisis to take control of your mental health. There are things you can do to practice self care.
Talk to someone you trust
A parent, friend, coach, teacher, school counselor or therapist. Or call 988.
Reach out for help
There’s a wide variety of free resources available to you.
Write it down
Putting your thoughts on paper — whether it’s journaling, making lists or any other form of writing — can be a positive way to slow down and process your feelings.
Get moving
Exercise can shift your state. And remember to always breathe and stay hydrated.
Take care of your body and mind
Get plenty of sleep, practice breathing techniques or meditation.
Helping Someone Else
Just showing up matters. If you’re worried someone you care about might be struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can make a difference in getting them the help they need.
Be direct
Discuss suicide openly and matter-of-factly.
Listen
Stay calm, don’t judge and take them seriously.
Help them connect
Connect with the right professional organizations or people that can help.
Don’t leave them alone
And remove means like weapons or pills, if you are able to do so. Do not put yourself in danger.
Mental health can be confusing and scary, but you don’t need to have all the answers to make a difference. If you have questions or need help if someone you know is struggling, contact 988.
How to Help a Loved One After a Suicide Attempt
If you’ve become aware that a loved one has attempted suicide, it is important to get them connected to help — no matter how long ago the attempt was.
Prioritize physical and emotional safety
Be somewhere they feel secure. If they’re in urgent danger, call 911.
Be supportive
Listen more than you talk and make yourself available. Ask how you can best support them.
Create a safety plan
with someone they trust.
Connect
them with a licensed mental health professional.
Recovery is possible, but it’s a process
Healing takes time. Recovery is not quick or linear, so be patient and present.
Encourage self care and relaxation
From exercise to writing to drawing to simply breathing, there are many things that can be done to promote wellbeing, process feelings and create an outlet for stress.
