Alex's Answer

Welcome to Ask Alex,

 

We thank you for sharing what is going on with you and hope that we can help support you in dealing with this. You have taken a very important and difficult first step, so well done for that.

 

You have asked about how to cope with suicidal thoughts? We are so sorry to hear that this is what you are dealing with at present and want you to know you are not alone. Having these thoughts must be very wearing on you. It can be helpful to look at when these thoughts might have started for you. Knowing how long it has been happening and seeing if a particular event sparked it off can be useful. By identifying the triggers associated with the thoughts, it can help:

 

1. To eliminate contact with that trigger where you can (e.g., a negative person in your life).

2. Give you an outlet to speak about the triggers you cannot change (e.g., death of a family member/friend).

 

Taking the time to identify and try to see when you began having these thoughts can give some clarity to you. It can be the first step towards coping with it and tackling the difficult thoughts.

 

It is important to remember that feelings are temporary, not permanent. Being aware of that at the time when your thoughts come can help. It can be a time in which you try to fill that time with something else like sleep, hoping that when you awaken, the thought will have passed. Keeping an eye on your physical health by ensuring you are eating well, staying hydrated, sleeping, and being active can all have a positive impact on you. It is also important to surround yourself with positive people who have a good impact on you. Taking time to relax and find comfort is vital.

 

If you are in an emergency or a dangerous situation, do not to hesitate to contact the emergency service on 112 or 999. There are many different outlets and supports you can turn to online, such as www.pieta.ie, which has a helpline and text service available 24 hours a day. www.textaboutit.ie is a free, anonymous, 24/7 messaging service providing everything from a calming chat to immediate support for mental health and well-being. You can also reach out to www.jigsaw.ie and www.yspi.ie, all with people ready to listen and support you.

 

Never feel alone, reach out and talk about it. Those around you will want to support and look out for you. Do you have a trusted adult you can turn to that will help support you? Make use of them, let them know what is going on, and continue to highlight to them your lowest moments so that they can be part of your coping techniques. If the feelings are building and becoming more regular, it may be worth linking up with your GP so that they can help.

 

If you feel that you don’t have anyone you can share this with at the moment or you want to talk it through, please reach out to Childline. We have a 24/7 confidential listening service where we will listen, support, and explore possible options with you. Our freephone number is 1800 66 66 66, or you can also go to www.childline.ie, where you will be able to access the Live Chat option by clicking on the Orange Tab.

 

We wish you the very best going forward and hope that some of the above information will help you in your journey. Look after yourself.

 

Alex