Reach out for help

Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and there are people who want to help. Reach out as early as possible.

How to reach out for help

Tell someone

  • If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or feel worried that you may do something to harm yourself, tell someone immediately.
  • Go somewhere safe where you can be with a trusted person, ask a friend or family member to stay with you, or talk to a counsellor or other health professional.
  • If you are not able to connect with a friend, family members, or a health professional, call a crisis line.

Get rid of any means to hurt yourself

If you have anything that you’ve thought about using to hurt or kill yourself with, get rid of it or give it to a trusted other.

Create a safety plan

Plan ahead for your safety when you have suicidal thoughts. Ask a trusted family member, friend, or counsellor to help you develop a step-by-step plan for how to keep yourself safe. If you feel unable to keep yourself safe, call 9-1-1 for immediate help and to be transported to the hospital.

Reach out: Resources that can help