Thoughts
Thoughts of self-punishment, hopelessness, death, self-harm, or suicide
Compassionate support for
Self Harm / Suicide
These experiences can feel isolating, frightening, and confusing, and people may struggle to understand why
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Understanding Self Harm / Suicide
Finding Support in Overwhelming Moments
Self-harm and suicidal thoughts are distinct experiences, although they can overlap. Self-harm may be used to cope with overwhelming distress and does not always mean that someone wants to die. Suicidal thoughts involve thinking about ending one’s life. Both deserve compassionate, non-judgmental support and a plan for safety.
If you may act on suicidal thoughts or are in immediate danger, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency department. In Canada, call or text 9-8-8 for crisis support at any time.
Signs Someone May Need Immediate Support
- Engaging in self-harming behaviours
- Frequent thoughts or preoccupation with death or dying
- Persistent feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
- Intense emotional distress (sadness, anger, shame, or guilt)
- Withdrawing from friends, family, or social activities
- Sudden changes in mood or behaviour
- Risk-taking or reckless behaviour
How Self Harm / Suicide Can Show Up
Emotions
Overwhelming distress, shame, guilt, anger, numbness, or desperation
Body
Agitation, exhaustion, disrupted sleep or appetite, or feeling physically numb or disconnected
Behaviour
Self-injury, concealing injuries, withdrawing, or taking greater risks
Relationships
Pulling away, hiding distress, or finding it difficult to ask for support
Therapy Approaches for Self Harm & Suicide
Somatic Experiencing
A gentle, body-oriented approach to stress, trauma, and nervous-system regulation
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Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Find inner calm by bringing your inner parts into harmony
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Sensorimotor Therapy
Gently noticing body sensations, movement, and protective responses to process trauma and build a greater sense of safety and choice
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Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
Strengthen emotional regulation, mindfulness, and relationship skills
LEARN MOREMore Ways We Can Help
Explore All Areas of Support
Care Without Judgment
You Deserve Support and Safety
Therapy offers a compassionate space to talk about urges or suicidal thoughts, understand what they may be communicating, and strengthen your plan for staying safe
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