A: Suicide is absolutely never, ever the answer. Sometimes life feels hopeless and you think it will never get better, but there is always a way out. And suicide isn't it. Suicide is a cop-out that leaves behind loved ones tormented with feelings of guilt, despair and grief.

The first thing you absolutely have to do is talk to your parents or another trusted adult. If you don't feel like you have someone to turn to, call 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433). This 24/7, free hotline is staffed with trained counselors who can help you work through your problems.

You have to believe that you are strong enough to deal with your problems and make your life better. Plus, try to remember that things sometimes change all by themselves. Situations that feel really depressing today might seem less important in a month or so.

You should also know that a lot of people have at least fleeting thoughts of suicide. Many people, during tough times, let themselves "go there," if even for a moment. "I have so much stuff going on," they think, "it'd be so much easier if I just gave up."

But you'd be cheating yourself and the people you love if you hurt yourself. Life can be tough. But, it has lots of joys and good things to offer, too. You have to reach down inside yourself and find the strength to meet the challenges. You can make it through this. Get help. It's out there. Make the call now. You deserve it.

For more info, check out fast facts: suicide and our suicide resource page.