Reasons Why Not To Kill YourSelf

4.

You can make life more meaningful

Many people dealing with suicidal thoughts believe life lacks meaning or see themselves as a burden.

Perhaps you live with physical or mental health symptoms that affect your quality of life. Or maybe you have a hard time recognizing what's gone right — or even well — in your life.

Giving up can feel easier when life seems pointless. But just as pain keeps you from seeing solutions, it can also pull the joy and significance from the things that used to matter.

Your life does have meaning, though. Challenge yourself to discover this meaning — or create it for yourself. It may not be large or earth-shattering, but it's still there. Consider skills, abilities, and other things you take pride in. Think about your connections with others or goals you once had.

Maybe you've always wanted to ride a horse, take a road trip, or visit the desert. Or perhaps there's a book or music album you've been waiting for, or even another season of your favorite show. No reason is too small.

Pets provide meaning, too. My cat was one of the main reasons I never fully gave up, and it wasn't just because he made my days a bit brighter. I worried about what would happen to him if I died, since it's not always easy to find good homes for senior cats with health issues and behavior quirks.