Chapter 1: When do I need help coping?

Thoughts of harming yourself

Feeling that you want to harm to yourself can be very frightening, especially if it is the first time you have felt this way. If you are having thoughts of self- harm, it is important that you seek help immediately. If you are thinking about killing yourself very soon, this is an emergency. You need to call 911 or have a trusted friend or family member take you to the hospital.

If you are having thoughts of suicide but have no plan or immediate intentions, trained professionals are available by telephone at crisis centers across Canada. The numbers are toll-free and the service free of charge.

Find the crisis centres in your province

Your doctor, health team, mental health professional or spiritual advisor can also help.