What Suicidal Ideation Really Feels Like

With thanks to our Organisational Member, Papyrus, for this blog.

It’s not always easy to talk about suicidal thoughts, let alone describe what it feels like to live with them.

But if we’re going to prevent suicide, we need to understand it. Not just in theory, but through lived experience.

One in four of us will experience suicidal thoughts in our lifetime. For many young people, those thoughts are isolating, frightening, and deeply misunderstood. When left unsupported, they can escalate, putting lives at risk.

We believe suicide is preventable. And prevention starts with recognising what someone may be going through before it becomes a crisis.

Suicidal thoughts aren’t always what you expect

Many assume suicidal ideation always means imminent danger. But it exists on a spectrum. For some, it’s occasional thoughts of not wanting to be here. For others, it’s constant, overwhelming, and deeply distressing.

These thoughts often ebb and flow, and even when someone seems “fine” on the outside, they may be silently struggling.

In the UK, suicide is the biggest killer of people under 35. We lose five young lives to suicide every day. This is happening now, in our communities, schools, workplaces and homes.

What suicidal thoughts can feel like

Everyone’s experience is different, but here are some common emotional themes:

Feeling like a burden
“I thought everyone would be better off without me.”
Suicidal thoughts can warp self-worth, making someone believe they’re a problem just by existing.

Emotional exhaustion
“I didn’t want to die. I just didn’t know how to live like this.”
For many, suicide isn’t about wanting death, it’s about wanting to escape the pain.

Disconnection or numbness
“I wasn’t sad. I just felt… nothing.”
This emotional void can be hard to recognise, and even harder to articulate.

Shame and silence
“I couldn’t tell anyone. I didn’t want them to think I was broken.”
Stigma keeps too many people quiet. And silence only adds to the pain.

Feeling trapped
“It felt like nothing would ever get better.”
When hope feels out of reach, the world can feel unbearably small.

Suicidal thoughts don’t mean someone is selfish or broken. They mean they are in pain, and they need support.

How to help

• Ask directly
  If you’re worried about someone, ask: “Are you having thoughts of suicide?” It could be a life-saving conversation.
• Listen with compassion
  You don’t need the perfect words. Just be present. Let them talk and feel heard.
• Reassure them they’re not alone
  Let them know help is out there and that their life matters.
• Know where to turn
  Our helpline, HOPELINE247, is here 24/7 for anyone under 35 struggling with thoughts of suicide, or anyone supporting them:
  
  Text ‘HOPE’ to 88247
  Call 0800 068 4141
  Email pat@papyrus-uk.org

Updated August 2025