Warning Signs
People who die by suicide usually show some indication of warning before their deaths.
Recognizing the warning signs for suicide can help us to intervene to save a life.
Some common warning signs that someone may show before they take action include, but are not limited to:
- Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves.
- Looking for a way to kill themselves, such as searching online or buying a gun.
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.
- Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain.
- Talking about being a burden to others.
- Increasing their use of substances.
- Acting anxious or agitated; engaging in risk taking behavior.
- Sleeping too little or too much.
- Withdrawing or isolating themselves.
- Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.
- Displaying extreme mood swings.
WHAT CAN I DO?
Show you care!
Talk openly about suicide and take all threats seriously. Talking about suicide will not give someone the idea of suicide. Listen and provide caring and compassionate support.
To know if a person is thinking about suicide, ask them directly “are you thinking about killing yourself?”
If they answer is yes, ask:
- “How are you going to kill yourself?”
- “When do you think you will kill yourself?”
- “Do you have what you need to kill yourself?”
The more detailed and dangerous the plan, the higher the risk.