Know the Signs
Pain is not always obvious, but most people experiencing suicidal ideation will show one or more signs that they are thinking about suicide. You may notice these signs through actions or in conversations, social media posts, writing, or artwork. If you notice any of these signs, especially if they are new, more frequent, or appear to be connected to a recent traumatic experience, loss, or significant change, step in and take action. This information has been adapted from suicideispreventable.org and moretomorrowsne.org
If any of these signs are present, seek immediate help
Critical Warning Signs
Talking about death or suicide
People who do this are not just "looking for attention." Any expression of death should always be taken seriously.
- Statements may be subtle or vague
- Statements may be direct or even literal "I am going to kill myself"
- Thought may be reflected in something written, drawn, or posted to social media
Seeking methods for self harm
- Searching methods online
- Asking people about methods
- Obtaining a firearm
Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
- Talking about being a burden to others
- Unable to see a way out of their current situation
- Statements that hint at life being pointless
This often sounds something like...
- "I don't want my family and friends to have to worry about me anymore."
- "They would be better off without me."
- "Things will never get better."
- "What I do doesn't matter. I'm a lost cause."
common warning signs that a person may be thinking about suicide
The Signs
Changes in mood
- Uncharacteristically sad or depressed
- Unusually happy after a period of significant depression
- Uncontrolled anger
- Express or act in ways that reflect hostility, bitterness, resentment, or rage
- Talking about seeking revenge
Changes in behavior
- Behaving recklessly and appearing to not care about the consequences
- Spending money recklessly
- Increased use of drugs or alcohol
- Withdrawing from people or activities they once enjoyed
- Sleeping more or less than usual
- Appearing anxious, shaken, or worried
Expressions of hopelessness and despair
- Unable to see how their situation or life could get better
- Cannot see a way out of their current situation
- Statements that hint at life being pointless
- Talking about being a burden to others (friends, family, society)
- No sense of purpose
Putting affairs in order
- Giving away prized or favorite possessions
- Giving away passwords, gaming personas, and other prized online activities
- Rushing to complete or revising a will
warning signs that a teen or young adult may be thinking about suicide
Teens and Young Adults
Complaining of physical pain
Complaining of headaches, stomachaches, fatigue, etc. that is often related to emotions
Neglect of personal appearance
- Lack of personal hygiene
- Stop caring about basic grooming
Changes in personality
- Significant changes in personality
- Appearing angry, agitated, or moody in a way that seems out of character
- Changes in appetite
- Dramatic mood swings
Loss of interest
Loss of interest in activities such as school, sports, hobbies, spending time with friends, or other activities they use to enjoy
Changes in sleep
- Sleeping more or less than usual
- Seemingly more tired than usual
warning signs that an older adult may be thinking about suicide
Older Adults
Depression
- Persistant sadness
- Anxiety
- Fatigue
Failure to take care of self
- Neglecting personal appearance
- Lack of basic hygiene
- Doesn't change clothes for an extended period of time
- Uncharacteristically eating poorly or not eating at all
Preoccupied with death
They persistently read, talk, or think about death or suicide
Saying goodbye
- Giving away possessions
- Indicating they're saying farewell
- Ending relationships
Neglecting doctor's orders
They may ignore medical advice