First of all, we are so glad that you decided to reach out in some way to find out about those feelings and what they mean. And it is important for you to know that just because you are having thoughts of suicide does not mean you will act on those thoughts. In fact, 82% of us will become overwhelmed with life as some point and have thoughts of suicide.

Thinking about suicide is not unusual but it is a sign that you need to connect with someone about what is going on. Without help, those thoughts, the pain you are feeling, may continue to get worse and thoughts could turn into actions. But know that it can get better. By connecting with someone you trust, you can talk through things and put supports in place that will help relieve those thoughts.

In many cases, once you have done that and the thoughts of suicide subside, they may never come back again. But, if they do, you will already have figured out a support system that you can work through again and help relieve that pain.

The most important thing to remember is that you are never alone. There are people who care about you and want to help. Why not give the crisis line or other crisis services a try? It could save your life.

• Vancouver Island Crisis Line – 1-888-494-3888 – 24/7
• Crisis Chat – www.vicrisis.ca – 6 pm to 10 pm nightly
• Crisis Text – 250-800-3806 – 6 pm to 10 pm nightly