Teen Slang · Safety to watch

What does “About to off myself” mean?

Coded statement of severe distress (often paired with 'unalive').

Where “About to off myself” comes from

Online suicide-adjacent vocabulary that evades platform moderation.

Why teens actually say it

Used because direct words get hidden by algorithms.

What it means for you as a parent

RED FLAG. Take literally. Call 988 (suicide & crisis lifeline). Stay present and warm.

How it’s used

  • “I’m so done with everything, about to off myself.” Coded language signaling real distress; take it seriously and reach out.
  • “About to off myself if this week gets any worse.” May be exaggeration or genuine pain; worth a calm, caring check-in.

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