What should I do if I am depressed or anxious or have suicidal thoughts?

Crisis Help Lines

If you think you might harm yourself, get help immediately. Call an emergency service provider or a free crisis help line in your area.

Some help lines can be found at “In Crisis? Talk Now.” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org).

Feelings of depression are real and can be overwhelming and debilitating. If you feel depressed or have thoughts of harming yourself, please talk with someone you trust. If you are in the United States, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. See the Church’s resources on suicide, such as Thoughts of Suicide, in Life Help and Self-Reliance on ChurchofJesusChrist.org or in the Gospel Library app. Professional counseling and medical care can also help.

Depression and Suicide

Research shows that if you experience transgender feelings, you may be at higher risk for depression or suicide. If you are depressed or are contemplating suicide, please seek the help of a competent mental health professional. Doctrine and Principles and other resources can be found in the suicide section of Life Help and Self-Reliance on ChurchofJesusChrist.org or in the Gospel Library app.

In the October 2019 general conference, Sister Reyna I. Aburto shared her own life experience with the pain associated with depression and suicide. She explained that “depression, anxiety, and other forms of mental and emotional affliction … can distort the way we perceive ourselves, others, and even God. …

“… Like any part of the body, the brain is subject to illnesses, trauma, and chemical imbalances. …

“In some cases, the cause of depression or anxiety can be identified, while other times it may be harder to discern. … Therapy or medication under the direction of trained professionals may also be needed.

“Untreated mental or emotional illness can lead to increased isolation, misunderstandings, broken relationships, self-harm, and even suicide. …

“Sadly, many who suffer from severe depression distance themselves from their fellow Saints because they feel they do not fit some imaginary mold. We can help them know and feel that they do indeed belong with us. It is important to recognize that depression is not the result of weakness, nor is it usually the result of sin. It ‘thrives in secrecy but shrinks in empathy’ [Jane Clayson Johnson, Silent Souls Weeping (2018), 197]” (“Thru Cloud and Sunshine, Lord, Abide with Me!,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2019, 57–58).

Trust in God

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland speaks compassionately of dealing with depression: “Whatever your struggle, my brothers and sisters—mental or emotional or physical or otherwise—do not vote against the preciousness of life by ending it! Trust in God. Hold on in His love. Know that one day the dawn will break brightly and all shadows of mortality will flee” (“Like a Broken Vessel,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2013, 42).