Alex's Answer

I think about suicide but won't ever do it

Your Question

Hello Alex, I am wondering about why I am the way I am, So I think about suicide quiet often but never would attempt it. I seem to enjoy the attention of having suicide on my mind? I love attention and I crave it I do have to lie sometimes to get it too. I even called the gardai one might saying I was assaulted and they came out I wasn’t assaulted just seeking attention.. think I’m not normal? My parents know I do it they tell people that what I do say or think is for attention. Any advice? Help?

Answer

Thank you for getting in touch and for trusting us with your question. It takes a lot of courage to reach out.  

It sounds like you have plenty going on. It is a relief that you say that you would never attempt suicide. Feeling suicidal is very serious and I would advise that you tell your parents or call the Gardai immediately if you ever do feel like killing yourself. You can contact the emergency services on 999/112 from any mobile or landline. 

It is normal for everyone to need and enjoy attention. Humans are very social, and we thrive on connection with others. I am concerned that you feel that you need to lie sometimes or talk about suicide to get the attention that you need.  

Sometimes people lie for attention because they don’t feel good about themselves, or they don’t believe that they are worthy of attention just by being themselves. They might be feeling lonely or sad and need comfort, but do not know how to ask for support. Other times people might lie because there is something bothering them, but they don’t know how to talk about it, so they try to get attention by talking about something else.  

There are lots of possible reasons behind why you are feeling this way. I find that it always helps me to talk with someone I trust when I am trying to figure something out. You have a right to be safe and to feel cared for and loved. I am wondering if you have an adult in your life who you can talk to and trust with your private thoughts and feelings?  

There are also lots of services around Ireland where young people can meet with a professional worker or mentor who can help them understand themselves and feel better about themselves. Would you feel comfortable asking your parents to find one of these services for you so you can talk to somebody? Your teachers may also be able to help you to find somebody if you think this would help.  

If you feel that you are not ready yet to talk to someone in your own life, you would be very welcome to give us a call at Childline on 1800 66 66 66 or you could text us on 50101 or contact us online for a web chat at  https://www.childline.ie/.  All of our services are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, are free, confidential and are a space for you to talk about your thoughts and feelings without being judged in any way.    

 Thank you for getting in touch with us today.  We are here to help if you have any other questions.   

Take care,    

Alex

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