Enesetapumõtted

Enesetapumõtted, or suicidal thoughts, refer to a range of thoughts about ending one's life or dying. They can appear suddenly or endure for days, weeks, or longer, and their intensity can fluctuate. They are a symptom that may accompany mental health conditions, stress, trauma, or overwhelming life events, and are not a normal or inevitable part of life.

Experiencing these thoughts is more common than many people expect. They can occur with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, substance use, chronic pain, or difficult life circumstances. Having thoughts does not mean a person will act on them, but they can signal a need for immediate support and evaluation.

Warning signs include talking about wanting to die, expressing hopelessness, withdrawing from others, drastic mood changes, giving away possessions, or engaging in risky or self-harming behavior. If you notice these signs in yourself or someone else, seek help promptly.

If you are having such thoughts, reach out to a trusted person or a mental health professional. Create a safety plan, remove immediate means of self-harm if possible, and contact local emergency services if there is imminent danger. If you are unsure where to start, a general practitioner can help.

Treatment often combines psychotherapy—such as cognitive behavioral therapy or dialectical behavior therapy—with clinical support and, when appropriate, medication. Early contact with a mental health professional improves outcomes. For urgent help, call your local emergency number or a crisis hotline; in emergencies, dial 112 in Europe.

Support resources include national and local helplines and online services. In the UK and Ireland, Samaritans can be reached at 116 123, and in the United States, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7 support. If you are outside these regions, ask a clinician for recommendations for your country. If you are in immediate danger, contact emergency services right away.