TeenHealthFX - Answers - Don't Want to be Dead But Get These Feelings

Suicide / Question
Published: April 9, 2008

Dear TeenHealthFX,

I don't think this is an emergency, but sometimes I take OTC pills and overdose on them.I mean I take a lot.. This one time I actually tried to stab myself. I don't want to be dead but I get these feelings and they don't go away until I don something. I have had panic attacks before. My parents don't know any of this. What should I do?? What is wrong with me??

Signed: Don't Want to be Dead But Get These Feelings

Dear Don't Want to be Dead But Get These Feelings,

The fact that you have overdosed on over-the-counter medication and tried to stab yourself tells TeenHealthFX that this is a critical situation and that you need to seek help immediately. You may not want to be dead but your actions are extremely impulsive and could have lethal consequences. We urge you to tell your parent right away what has been going on and ask them to get you help.

Panic Attacks can be frightening and completely overwhelming for the person experiencing them. Some of the symptoms are:

increased heart rate or a feeling like your heart is pounding out of your chest
sweating
shaking
shortness of breath
nausea
dizziness
tingling of hands and feet

You don’t have to hurt yourself to escape the unpleasant feelings you have been experiencing. Anxiety and Panic disorders are treatable. Counseling and medication can help bring the disorder under control so you can get back to your normal functioning.

If you get to the point that you are seriously considering suicide or are afraid of your impulses then you need to seek help immediately. You can call 911 or go to your nearest hospital emergency room. In northern New Jersey you can also call the crisis hotline from Morristown Memorial hospital at 973-540-0100. Outside this area call the Suicide & Crisis Hotline, 1-800-999-9999, 24 hours, 7 days a week

If you live in northern New Jersey and need help finding a therapist you can call the Access Center from Atlantic Behavioral Health at 888-247-1400. Outside of this area you can log onto the US Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website for referrals in your area.

Signed: TeenHealthFX