If you are thinking about suicide, help is available
आत्महत्या के विचार और संकट में सहायता
If you are in immediate danger, call 112 or go to the nearest hospital emergency now. Tele-MANAS (14416 or 1-800-891-4416) is a free 24×7 government mental health helpline.
Suicidal thoughts are usually a sign of treatable distress such as depression, not a weakness. Talking to someone you trust is a strong first step.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MBBS, MD Psychiatry
Warning signs
- Talking about wanting to die or being a burden
- Searching for ways to end life, collecting pills
- Withdrawing, giving away belongings, saying goodbyes
- Sudden calm after a period of deep distress
What can increase risk
- Depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, substance use
- Major loss, exam or job failure, debt, relationship crisis
- Chronic pain or illness, isolation
Risk factors
- Previous suicide attempt
- Easy access to pesticides, medicines or other means
- Alcohol or drug intoxication
How it is diagnosed
- A calm, private conversation about thoughts, plans and safety
- Identifying and treating the underlying condition
How help and treatment work
- 1Immediate safety: emergency care or hospital admission when risk is high
- 2A written safety plan: warning signs, coping steps, people to call
- 3Treatment of depression, substance use or other conditions
- 4Close follow-up in the weeks after a crisis
Psychotherapy and counselling
- CBT and problem-solving therapy
- DBT skills for intense emotions and repeated self-harm
Guidance for family
- Ask directly: "Are you thinking of suicide?" — asking does not put the idea in their mind
- Listen without judging; do not promise to keep it secret
- Remove or lock away pesticides, medicines, ropes and weapons
- Stay with the person and get professional help
Get help immediately if
- A plan or means to end life — call 112 or go to emergency now
- After any self-harm, even if it seems minor
- Thoughts of death that keep returning — Tele-MANAS 14416 (24×7)
Thoughts of self-harm or a medical emergency? Call Tele-MANAS 14416 (24×7, free) or 112.
Free self-assessment
A short screening in Hindi or English. Private — nothing is saved. Screening does not establish a diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
Is an online consultation suitable in a crisis?
No. If you are in immediate danger, go to the nearest emergency or call 112. Online consultation is for ongoing care once you are safe.
Do suicidal thoughts go away?
With support and treatment, most people find that these thoughts reduce and life feels manageable again.
Should the family join the consultation?
Yes, family input is very helpful — especially for children, teenagers, eating disorders and memory problems. Part of the session can also be private.
Help is available — confidential, in Hindi or English.
Private video consultation from anywhere in India with an Ajmer-based psychiatrist. Psychiatry consultation ₹500.
This page is for education and does not replace a personal consultation. Do not start or stop any medicine without a doctor's advice.