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Get help now for suicidal thoughts

If you or a loved one are having suicidal thoughts, you are not alone. Thoughts of suicide attempts and completion affect many Iowans. Suicide does not discriminate, and can affect anyone. When someone says they are thinking about suicide, or says things that sound as if the person is considering suicide, it can be very upsetting. You may not be sure what to do to help, whether you should take talk of suicide seriously, or if your intervention might make the situation worse.

If you or a loved one have been having suicidal thoughts, reach out NOW to Your Life Iowa for free, confidential support. We can connect you to the help you need, provide information and be a shoulder to lean on.
 

 Warning signs

  • Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves
  • Looking for a way to kill themselves
  • Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
  • Increasing the use of alcohol, drugs

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Am I at risk?

See if you or a loved one needs help with just a few simple questions.

Over the past 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by any of the following problems?

Little interest or pleasure in doing things

Over the past 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by any of the following problems?

Feeling down, depressed, or hopeless

Over the past 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by any of the following problems?

Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or sleeping too much

Over the past 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by any of the following problems?

Feeling tired or having little energy

Over the past 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by any of the following problems?

Poor appetite or overeating

Over the past 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by any of the following problems?

Feeling bad about yourself - or that you're a failure or have let yourself or your family down

Over the past 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by any of the following problems?

Trouble concentrating on things, such as reading the newspaper or watching television

Over the past 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by any of the following problems?

Moving or speaking so slowly that other people could have noticed. Or, the opposite - being so fidgety or restless that you have been moving around a lot more than usual

Over the past 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by any of the following problems?

Thoughts that you would be better off dead or hurting yourself in some way

If you checked any problems, how difficult have those problems made it for you to do your work, take care of things at home, or get along with other people?

Information about suicide

Suicide is preventable. Most individuals desperately want to live; they are just unable to see alternatives to their problems.

Learn More

Learn how to support your health and wellness

  • Myths & Facts

    Learn about factors that may contribute to a person’s risk.

  • Risk Factors

    Learn about factors that may contribute to a person’s risk.

  • Self-care Checklist

    Taking care of yourself is an important part of being emotionally and mentally healthy.

  • FAQs

    See frequently asked questions and answers.

  • YourLifeIowa.Support

    Encouragement. One Text at a Time.

  • Brain Injury

    Brain injuries can be a multi-occurring condition with thoughts of suicide.

Health & wellness

"

I called worried about my son. The counselor listened to my story and helped me create a safe plan to address my concerns. Thank you for your service!”

- YOUR LIFE IOWA CALLER

Support for family and friends.

With Your Life Iowa, you and your loved ones are never alone. Whether you want more information about how to help someone, would like to connect to a treatment professional or just want to talk to someone who cares, we’re here for you.

Family and friends

Want to find help on your own?

Your Life Iowa is always here to help you find resources near you. However, we understand that sometimes you’d like to look for help on your own. Our map will let you do just that.

Find a local provider

Would you like a mental health professional to contact you?

Fill out a simple contact form and a professional will reach out to you.

Submit your email

Not finding what you’re looking for?

Additional Suicide Prevention Resources