Know the Warning Signs of Suicide

Lets talk about the warning signs of suicide. It is important to be aware of them so you can recognize the signs. While it can look different for everyone, there are some common things to look out for related to talk, behavior, and mood. The overall main thing to be aware of is a sudden or extreme change in someone. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing these warning signs of suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help. You can call the National Suicide Help Line at 1-800-273-8255. The Trevor Project also has a lifeline at 1-866-488-7386 or text START 678-678. 

Warning Signs 

Talking about:

  • Wanting to die or kill oneself

  • Feeling hopeless or having no purpose

  • Being a burden to others

  • Having no reason to live

  • Feeling trapped  

  • Having unbearable pain

Behavior:

  • Increased use of alcohol or drugs

  • Acting anxious or reckless

  • Looking up ways to kill oneself

  • Sleeping too much or too little

  • Isolating from family and friends

  • Visiting or calling to say goodbye to friends / family

  • Giving away possessions 

Mood: 

  • Displaying extreme mood swings

  • Depression 

  • Anxiety 

  • Increased irritability 

  • Feeling empty, hopeless 

Sources:

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. (2021). Risk factors and warning signs. Retrieved from https://afsp.org/risk-factors-and-warning-signs 

National Institute of Mental Health. (2021). Warning signs of suicide. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/warning-signs-of-suicide/index.shtml 

Sucide Awareness Voices of Education. (2021). Warning Signs of Suicide – SAVE. Retrieved from https://save.org/about-suicide/warning-signs-risk-factors-protective-factors/ 

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org

Lucy Dollinger