Suicide
I’m Worried I Might Hurt Myself. How Can I Stay Safe?

“I’m Worried I Might Hurt Myself. How Can I Stay Safe?” Thoughts of Suicide (2018).

“I’m Worried I Might Hurt Myself,” Thoughts of Suicide.

I’m Worried I Might Hurt Myself. How Can I Stay Safe?

If you are in crisis and think you might hurt yourself, get help immediately. Call an emergency service provider or a free crisis help line in your area.

If you are not in immediate crisis, talk to someone you trust, such as a family member, friend, bishop, or health care professional. Sharing your thoughts with someone can relieve a lot of pressure. Do not let feelings of embarrassment, fear, or shame stop you. Here are additional ideas that may be helpful to you:

  • Create a safety plan. A suicide prevention safety plan can help you identify personal strengths, positive relationships, and healthy coping skills that you can use during a crisis (see “How to Create a Suicide-Prevention Safety Plan,” Doug Thomas, Ensign, Sept. 2016, 63).

  • Set small goals. Each evening, write down at least one task or goal that you can accomplish the next day. Keep these tasks simple and attainable. Setting small goals and working toward them can help you find a sense of control when everything seems unmanageable.

  • Trust the Savior. Remember that Jesus Christ is here for you (see Alma 7:11–13). He understands the pain you are going through more perfectly than you can imagine. Show your willingness to trust Him through actions such as kneeling in prayer, asking for a priesthood blessing, and talking to your bishop.

Church and Community Resources

(Some of the resources listed below are not created, maintained, or controlled by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. These materials are intended to serve as additional helpful resources as you study this topic. The Church does not endorse any content that is not in keeping with its doctrines and teachings.)