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Understanding Suicide and Getting Support in Toronto

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If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, support is available right now. In Canada, you can call or text 9-8-8 (24/7) to reach trained crisis responders. If you are in immediate danger or need urgent medical help, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency department.

At The Cohen Clinic, we provide therapy for adults in Toronto who are struggling with suicidal thoughts, emotional pain, hopelessness, or feeling unable to cope. You do not need to be “at your worst” to reach out. Early support matters.

If You Need Help Right Now

Immediate support in Canada

9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline

  • Call or text 9-8-8 (toll-free, 24/7)
  • Available across Canada, with bilingual support

 

Toronto crisis supports

Local crisis lines (Toronto/GTA)

 

Emergency care

If there is immediate risk

  • Call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency department

What Does “Suicidal Thoughts” Mean?

Suicidal thoughts can range from passive thoughts (for example, wishing you could disappear or not wake up) to more active thoughts about ending your life. These thoughts are often connected to emotional pain, feeling trapped, hopelessness, or believing you are a burden.

Having these thoughts does not mean you want to die as much as you want the pain to stop. With the right support, suicidal thinking can change.

Common Reasons People Struggle With Suicidal Thoughts

Suicidal thoughts are usually linked to a mix of stressors and vulnerabilities, such as:

  • Depression and persistent low mood

  • Anxiety, panic, or intense distress

  • Substance use concerns

  • Major loss (grief, relationship breakup, job loss)

  • Trauma history

  • Chronic illness or chronic pain

  • Social isolation and lack of support

  • Previous suicide attempts

Warning Signs That Someone May Be at Risk

Warning signs vary, but common indicators can include:

What someone says

Direct or indirect statements

  • Talking about wanting to die or not wanting to live
  • Saying they feel hopeless, trapped, or like a burden

 

What someone does

Behaviour changes

  • Withdrawing from people or activities
  • Increased substance use
  • Risk-taking or sudden changes in behaviour

 

How someone seems

Mood and functioning shifts

  • Persistent agitation, emotional numbness, or severe sadness
  • Large swings in mood, or appearing unusually “calm” after a period of distress
  • If you are unsure, it is still appropriate to reach out for guidance through 9-8-8.

What To Do If You’re Worried About Someone

You do not need to have perfect words. What matters is showing up and taking it seriously.

Practical steps

Supportive action

  • Ask directly if they are thinking about suicide (this does not increase risk)
  • Stay with them (in person or on the phone) while you get help
  • Encourage immediate support by calling/texting 9-8-8 together 
  • If there is immediate danger, call 9-1-1

How Therapy Can Help

Therapy can help reduce suicidal thinking by addressing the drivers underneath it; depression, trauma, anxiety, shame, relationship strain, burnout, or feeling trapped.

Stabilizing the crisis cycle

Creating safety and support

  • Building a plan for what to do when thoughts spike
  • Strengthening coping strategies for intense emotion
  • Reducing isolation through consistent support

 

Treating underlying mental health concerns

Evidence-based approaches

  • CBT to reduce hopelessness and rigid, self-critical thinking
  • DBT-informed skills for distress tolerance and emotion regulation
  • Trauma-focused therapy when trauma is a major contributor (when clinically appropriate)

Therapy does not replace urgent crisis support. If you are at immediate risk, start with 9-8-8 or emergency services.

Support at The Cohen Clinic in Toronto

At The Cohen Clinic, we provide a non-judgmental space to talk openly about suicidal thoughts, emotional pain, and what feels unbearable. We focus on safety, stabilization, and practical steps toward relief; at a pace that is manageable.

Book Therapy Support in Toronto

If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, you deserve support. If you are in danger or need immediate help, call/text 9-8-8 (Canada, 24/7) or call 9-1-1.

If you are not in immediate danger and want ongoing support, Book an Appointment to begin therapy.