top of page
Writer's pictureDr. Ernesha Smith

To Those Who’ve Considered Suicide: You Are Not Alone

If you’ve ever thought about suicide, I want you to know this: you are not alone. Right now, you might be feeling an overwhelming amount of pain, exhaustion, or hopelessness. These feelings can make it seem like there’s no way out, but there is hope, and your life is worth fighting for.


The Pain You’re Feeling is Real

First, let’s acknowledge the weight of what you’re carrying. The pain, sadness, or emptiness you feel is real. Maybe you’ve been struggling with these feelings for a long time, or perhaps they’ve crept up unexpectedly. Whether they’re the result of unhealed trauma, relentless stress, or a deep sense of isolation, these emotions are valid. But they don’t define who you are or the value of your life.

I know it might feel like no one understands what you’re going through, but the truth is that many people experience thoughts of suicide. It doesn’t mean you’re weak or broken. It means you’re human and going through something extraordinarily difficult.


You Are Not a Burden

One of the most painful parts of feeling suicidal is the belief that the world, or the people you care about, would be better off without you. That is simply not true. You are not a burden. Your life matters, and the people around you, even if they don’t always show it, would be devastated to lose you.


It’s easy to feel invisible or insignificant when you’re caught in this kind of pain, but your presence in the world has an impact far more than you may realize. Even if you can’t see it right now, you make a difference in the lives of others.


The Thoughts Are Not Permanent

It’s also important to remember that the thoughts you’re having right now, as overwhelming as they are, don’t last forever. Emotions, no matter how intense, are temporary. They come in waves, sometimes crashing down so hard that it’s hard to breathe, but they do pass.


If you’re thinking about ending your life, it’s often because you can’t see another way to end the pain. But suicide isn’t the answer. It’s a permanent solution to temporary pain. There are other ways to find relief, even if you can’t imagine them right now.


What You Can Do Right Now

If you’re in that dark space, here are a few steps you can take right now to help shift the weight:


  1. Talk to Someone: I know it’s hard, but reach out to someone you trust, a friend, family member, therapist, or a crisis helpline. You don’t have to have the perfect words or even know how to explain what you’re feeling. Just start the conversation. Saying “I’m struggling” can be enough to open the door.


  2. Create Some Space Between Your Thoughts and Actions: When your thoughts are racing, it can feel like you have to act immediately, but you don’t. Take a moment to breathe. Give yourself time. Even a few minutes can create space between the overwhelming thoughts and making a decision.


  3. Focus on One Small Step: When life feels unbearable, it’s okay to take things moment by moment. Focus on getting through the next hour or the next day. Sometimes, breaking it down like this helps to manage the overwhelming feelings.


  4. Remove Immediate Means: If you’re in immediate danger, remove access to anything that could cause harm. If you can’t do this alone, ask someone you trust to help. It’s important to create a safe space while you get the help you need.


  5. Let Someone Know: Don’t keep your thoughts a secret. Whether it’s a text to a friend or reaching out to a therapist, letting someone know what’s going on inside you can be the first step toward finding relief. You don’t have to carry this burden alone.


Finding Hope

I know hope can feel impossible right now, but it exists, even in the smallest of things. It might be hard to see today, but your story isn’t over. Healing is possible. There are people who care about you and want to support you in finding your way through this darkness.


Every moment you continue to choose life, even when it’s painful, is a testament to your strength. You have survived your worst days so far, and you can survive this one too. There is a future where this pain no longer controls you, where you feel more at peace, more in control, and more alive.


Reach Out for Help

If you’re having suicidal thoughts, there are resources available to help you, and you don’t have to go through this alone. At Alternative Healing✨🌿, we’re here to support you in navigating your mental health, helping you find relief and healing.


There are also many crisis hotlines and resources that are available 24/7:

  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

  • International Resources: If you’re outside the U.S., there are international hotlines and resources that can provide support.


Your Life Matters

I know it can feel impossible to believe right now, but your life matters. You matter. Your story isn’t over, and there is more life waiting for you on the other side of this pain. Please hold on, even when it feels unbearable. There is hope, and there is help. We’re here for you, and we believe in your strength to get through this, one step at a time.


You are not alone.




Comments


bottom of page