Many youth will have thoughts of suicide. These thoughts can range from simply wishing for the pain to end, all the way to taking steps to seriously harming themselves. People who have thoughts of suicide often struggle with distress for a long time. They consider death as one option for stopping their pain. Others might have a sudden urge when they live a moment they find difficult to accept. 

When we asked youth about suicide:

Although young women are twice as likely as young men to attempt suicide, young men are 3 times as likely to die because of suicide. This is scary stuff, and needs to change. 

Think about people in your life who can support you...

• Someone to spend time with to take my mind off things ________________
• Someone who can help with practical things __________________________
• Someone who is a good listener __________________________

If speaking with someone face to face is hard, you could try:

• Writing a note

• E-mail

• Instant messaging

• Texting

3. Get help

If you have a hard time sharing your thoughts with someone you know, think about others with experience helping people with thoughts of suicide, like:

• Your family doctor;

• Walk-in clinics;

• Telephone support lines;

• Websites that offer online support (see the resource section for more detailed information).

4. Stay Safe

If thoughts and urges about suicide grow stronger, you can keep yourself safe by:

• Surrounding yourself with people you care about;

• Asking others to remove anything that could be harmful, or might tempt you in a difficult moment;

• Not using drugs or alcohol;

• Taking medications only as presecribed by your doctor;

• Calling a crisis line. They can give you non-judgemental support, and help you make a safety plan if you have difficulty staying safe (see the Emergency Action Plan on page 4 for phone numbers). 

• Relationships: You can work on repairing them, reach out for new ones or end destructive ones. Invest in your relationship with yourself by taking care of your body and challenging negative self talk.
• Activities or hobbies: Activities or hobbies that make you feel good and bring positive experiences. This might mean spending time on activities you’re already involved in. Or it might mean trying something new, joining a club or volunteering with a group (a great way to meet new people and make friends).
• Religion, faith and spirituality: Whatever our beliefs, exploring our faith or spirituality can help us find meaning and purpose in our lives.
• Take care of your body: Getting enough sleep and proper nutrition will help you handle everyday struggles better. Sleep can sometimes be difficult, but try to get into a routine that gives you at least 8-10 hours of sleep each night. 

Names and Numbers for my health care professionals 

Doctor: ...................

Counsellor/therapist: ...................

Others: .....................................

My hospital (name and phone number): 

.................................................................................................................................................... 

My medications, including dosages: 

....................................................................................................................................................

My pharmacy and phone number: 

....................................................................................................................................................

People I can call for support