Adults

Strength to Navigate Life's Challenges

As an adult, you're often expected to navigate life's ups and downs with grace and resilience. But sometimes, the pressures of work, family, finances, and health can become overwhelming. If you're feeling hopeless, or if you're considering suicide, we ask you to STAY and reach out for support.

Why STAY?

STAY is a declaration to yourself, to your loved ones, and to the future. It's seeking help when the weight of the world feels too heavy to bear. It's a reminder that it's okay to ask for support, and that you don't have to face your struggles alone.

Understanding the Challenges

We recognize that adults face a multitude of stressors. Balancing work, family, and personal responsibilities can sometimes lead to feelings of being overwhelmed or despair. Financial pressures, relationship issues, and health concerns can also contribute to feelings of hopelessness.

You Are Not Alone

Remember, you are not alone. Many adults have faced similar struggles and have found ways to cope and thrive – but just like them, you might need help to get there. There are resources and communities available to support you.

Reach Out for Help

If you're feeling hopeless, reach out for help. Start by calling 988. This is the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, and they're available 24/7 to provide support. You can also reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional and be honest about how you are feeling: If you’ve thought about suicide, let them know.

Remember: The journey to feeling better begins with deciding to STAY

STAY is a simple, powerful message. It's a request for you to stay with us, to stay in this world, and to stay hopeful in the face of life's challenges. It's a message of resilience, and hope. So, if you're struggling, remember to STAY. Reach out for help. And know that there are people who care about you and want you to stay alive.

Find help now

Recognizing Warning Signs

If you observe one or more of these warning signs, especially if the behavior is new, has increased, or seems related to a painful event, loss, or change, it's important to step in or speak up:

  • Talking about death or suicide
  • Seeking methods for self-harm, such as searching online or obtaining a weapon
  • Talking about feelings of hopelessness or having no reason to live
  • Reckless behavior
  • Changes in sleep patterns
  • Increased alcohol or drug use
  • Talking about being a burden to others
  • Uncontrolled anger
  • Putting affairs in order or giving away possessions
  • Showing sudden mood changes
  • Withdrawing from social activities

Remember, these do not necessarily mean a person is thinking about suicide, but they should not be ignored. If you notice any of these signs, it's important to connect and offer help.

Additional Warning Signs for Adults

  • Expressing feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
  • Talking about feeling trapped or being in unbearable pain
  • Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
  • Withdrawing or isolating themselves
  • Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
  • Extreme mood swings
  • Talking about being a burden to others
Learn how to help

Resources

Find below a list of organizations that provide support for adults.

If it's an emergency:
Call 911 now

If you’re in distress and need support:
Call or text 988
or chat at 988lifeline.org/chat
Free and confidential support, 24/7

Deaf or Hard of Hearing Crisis Support
Online chat: 988lifeline.org/help-yourself/for-deaf-hard-of-hearing
TTY: Use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988

Crisis Text Line
Free 24/7 support with a volunteer Crisis Counselor
Text HOME to 741741
or message on WhatsApp
Chat online: www.crisistextline.org

More Resources

National Maternal Mental Health Hotline
24/7 free, confidential hotline for pregnant and new moms in English and Spanish
Call or text 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262)
mchb.hrsa.gov/national-maternal-mental-health-hotline

Love is Respect
Healthy relationships and crisis support
Call 1-866-331-9474
Text LOVEIS to 22522
Web chat and learn more: www.loveisrespect.org

Mental Health Resources for Caregivers
Mental Health America
mhanational.org/mental-health-resources-caregivers

SAMHSA – Find Support
Referral for issues with mental health, drugs or alcohol
Call: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
TTY: 1-800-487-4889
www.samhsa.gov/find-support

Disaster Distress Helpline
Connect with a trained, caring counselor, 24/7 
Call or text 1-800-985-5990
disasterdistress.samhsa.gov

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Suicide prevention resources
afsp.org

AFSP – Living with Suicide Loss
Resources and support group search from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
afsp.org/ive-lost-someone

CDC - Emotional Well-Being
Wellness resources for all ages from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
www.cdc.gov/emotional-wellbeing

More Helplines and Resources →

What to do

If you're thinking about suicide, please stay and reach out for support.

Call now: 988