Why do I want to end my life?

There are many reasons people think about ending their life.

Some common life experiences include:

• Being abused, bullied (physical, emotional or sexual) or excluded
• Significant loss, such as a life partner
• Major life stresses (e.g. a relationship breakdown, legal or financial problems)
• Chronic pain and chronic illness (including mental illness)
• Unemployment
• Alcohol and drug use.

It might be that you are experiencing a combination of the above in your life and, that is leading you to feel overwhelmed and distressed. You might be feeling so troubled that you are unable to sleep, eat or enjoy anything.

Although you may be feeling painfully alone right now, it is important for you to know that other people have thought about ending their lives too. Other people thinking about suicide will have had similar thoughts to your own.

Accessing professional support

Feeling suicidal can be an overwhelming and painful experience, but it is not something you have to bear alone. Asking for help is an important step towards getting the support you need.

In an emergency

If you are in immediate danger, or concerned for your safety in any way:

• Call 000 and request an ambulance. Stay on the line, speak clearly, and be ready to answer the operator’s questions
• Attend your local hospital’s emergency department
• Call your local Public Emergency Mental Health Service.

Each of these emergency services teams are specially trained to support people in crisis, including people feeling suicidal, and are able to keep you safe.

There are a number of services and professionals available to help you through this difficult time. You may wish to speak to someone over the phone, or prefer to seek help face to face. Whichever you choose, it’s important that you are as honest about your situation and the way you’re feeling as possible, so you can get the support you need. Talking to someone about such a painful issue can be difficult, so you may want to check out our How to talk about suicide page for information and tips on how to start a conversation.

The Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467 provides immediate support to anyone feeling suicidal. Access online counselling.