Feelings

Thoughts on death

Most people think about death at some point. But sometimes the thoughts can feel very difficult. For example, you may feel that you can't go on living. You may also be afraid of losing someone. Sometimes these thoughts make it difficult to live in the moment.

Get help

Can be scary

It is not uncommon to feel fear of death. It may be difficult to feel in control of death and we may be afraid of getting old or sick or of someone close to us getting sick and dying. 

It can also be thoughts about what will happen after you die, or thoughts about feeling like you can't live anymore. 

Many people who worry about death find it difficult to live in the moment. But it's common to worry about things that haven't happened yet, such as work, family or something else entirely.

But if your thoughts about death are preventing you from living the life you want, it's important to talk to someone about your feelings. When you're alone, the dark thoughts can grow stronger, but once you share difficult things with others, you're no longer alone in them. Help is available!

There are many people around you who can be supportive, maybe even those you don't think about. It could be a teacher, a friend or a friend's parent, the cleaner at school or your football coach. You can also talk to someone in the health service, a youth clinic, the school counsellor, the health centre or a support line.  


Are you worried about a friend?

Often it can feel shameful to think about wanting to die. That's why it's a good idea to ask your friends how they're feeling, especially if you're worried.

For example, to show that you care, you could try asking: 'How are you? I'm thinking about you and I'm a bit worried." Or "Are you thinking about dying? I'm here for you if you want to talk."

It may be a good idea to offer to accompany your friend to a counsellor or trusted adult for support.

In our chat you can talk to us about your thoughts. Thoughts about death are a common topic of conversation among those we meet in the chat.