Suicide Prevention

Where can I get help?

It is important to seek help if suicidal thoughts appear. Many people experience suicidal thoughts at some point in their lives. It is good to know that such thoughts are usually temporary. The Directorate of Health works on suicide prevention, but no health services are provided there. Below is an overview of the resources that are available.

Overview of available resources

Health Care Information Centre - phone 1700
Heilsuvera's online chat
Red Cross helpline 1717 - phone 1717
Online chat 1717.is
Pieta Association - phone 552-2218
Bergið headspace - for young people up to 25 years old
Sorgarmiðstöð - for those who have lost a loved one
Health care centres all over the country
Emergency room of the phsychiatric services of Landspitali at Hringbraut - phone 543-1000
Akureyri Hospital's psychiatric emergency department - phone 463-0202
Emergency - 1-1-2 - phone 112

Resources and help in case of suicidal thoughts - video (Icelandic)
Sjalfsvig.is - website (Icelandic)

Support from someone in the near environment or family member can make a difference. As a family member, friend, neighbor or colleague, we can all make an impact by stopping and observing our well-being and the well-being of the people around us. If there is concern that someone is having suicidal thoughts, it is good to know that it is okay to ask the person if they are considering suicide. Asking about suicidal thoughts does not increase the likelihood that the person will take their own life. It can help a person in distress to feel that someone is there to listen and show understanding.

-Do not leave the person alone if you think there is immediate danger. Seek professional help
-Sjalfsvig.is - website

Do you know someone who might be considering suicide? (poster)
Czy znasz kogos, ́ kto mysĺi o samobójstwie? (poster) (Polish)

Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy that leaves a deep sadness. Family, friends, colleagues, healthcare professionals, and the entire immediate environment of the person will be affected for a long time. Painful emotions such as numbness, denial, anger, blame, or guilt can characterise grief.

For those who have lost a loved one to suicide, grief support is recommended at Sorgarmiðstöð and Píeta Association. The website sjalfsvig.is may be useful.