Suicide warning signs

Photo by: cassandrajowett

While some suicides occur without any outward warning, most people who are suicidal do give some sign that they are thinking about suicide. By knowing these signs - and what to do if you if you see them in yourself or another person - you can help prevent a suicide.

What are the signs?

• Threatening to hurt of kill oneself or talking about wanting to hurt or kill oneself;
• Looking for ways to kill oneself by seeking access to firearms, available pills, or other means;
• Talking or writing about death, dying, or suicide when these actions are out of the ordinary for the person;
• Feelings of hopelessness;
• Feelings of rage or uncontrolled anger or seeking revenge;
• Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities - seemingly without thinking;
• Feeling trapped - like there’s no way out;
• Increasing alcohol or drug use;
• Withdrawing from friends, family and society;
• Giving away possessions;
• Feeling anxious, agitated or unable to sleep or sleeping all the time;
• Experiencing dramatic mood changes;
• Seeing no reason for living or having no sense of purpose in life.

What should you do if you or someone you know shows these signs?

Take action by seeking help as soon as possible by contacting a mental health professional, a parent, or teacher or boss, or by calling the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). If you feel someone is in immediate danger of taking their own life, call 911 or the Lifeline right away. If you are with the person you think is in imminent danger of taking their life, stay with that person until help arrives.

If you are worried about a friend who is thinking about suicide, you might also want to also check out the When a friend is thinking about suicide fact sheet.

For more information:

• Suicide Awareness Voices of Education
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

Responses

Thanks for your comment on ReachOut.com! We moderate all comments to ensure the site is safe and supportive. Your comment should appear within 24 hours if it is approved.