People who have suicidal thoughts may not seek help because they feel they cannot be helped. This usually is not the case. Many people with suicidal thoughts have medical conditions that can be successfully treated. People who have suicidal thoughts often have depression or substance abuse; both of these conditions can be treated. It is important to seek help when suicidal thoughts occur because medical treatment usually is successful in diminishing these thoughts.

The possibility of suicide is most serious when a person has a plan for committing suicide that includes:

• Having the means, such as weapons or medicines, available to commit suicide or do harm to another person.
• Having set a time and place to commit suicide.
• Thinking there is no other way to solve the problem or end the pain.

People who are considering suicide often are undecided about choosing life or death. With compassionate help, they may choose to live.

Review the Emergencies and Check Your Symptoms sections to determine if and when you need to see a health professional.