Suicide / Question
Published: November 2, 2009
Dear TeenHealthFX,
Hi. I like fantasizing about killing myself in all kinds of different ways and sometimes about cutting myself and bleeding or hitting myself, but I don't carry them out and don't plan to. I mentally detail out how I could hurt or kill myself. Is that normal?? I've been slightly suicidal before, but nothing too dangerous.
Signed: Fantasize About Killing Myself In Different Ways
Dear Fantasize About Killing Myself In Different Ways,
While FX is relieved that you are not acting out any of these violent fantasies on yourself, we are still very concerned about the fact that you are having such intense and frequent images about self-harm. FX is unsure as to why you are experiencing these thoughts. You may be dealing with a mood disorder or you may be angry about certain environmental factors or relationships in your life and directing that anger towards yourself in these fantasies. There are several possibilities, and FX does think that it is important for you to meet with a mental health professional who can determine what is contributing to these thoughts, and develop an effective treatment plan with you that will eliminate, or at least significantly reduce, these thoughts of self-harm. Treatment may include individual therapy, family therapy, medication management, or some combination of three. But it is important that you talk to your parent(s)/guardian(s) as soon as possible so that arrangements can be made for a consultation with a mental health professional and treatment can be started – particularly before these thoughts escalate into any kind of action.
If you live in northern New Jersey and need help finding a therapist you can call the Access Center from Atlantic Behavioral Health at 973-247-1400. Outside of this area you can log onto the US Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website for referrals in your area. You can also contact your insurance company to get a list of in-network mental health providers or check with your school social worker or psychologist to get a list of referrals in your area.
If you get to the point that you are seriously considering suicide or are afraid of your impulses then you need to seek help immediately. You can call 911 or go to your nearest hospital emergency room. In northern New Jersey you can also call the crisis hotline from Morristown Memorial hospital at 973-540-0100. Outside this area call the Suicide & Crisis Hotline, 1-800-999-9999, 24 hours, 7 days a week.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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