People who are considering suicide may show signs that they are thinking about or planning to attempt suicide. These are known as warning signs of suicide. These signs may mean someone is at risk for suicide. Risk is greater if a behavior is new or has recently increased in frequency or intensity, and if it seems related to a painful event, loss, or change.
Common Warning Signs:
- Talking about wanting to die or kill oneself
- Looking for ways to kill oneself, 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 the use of alcohol or drugs
- Acting anxious or agitated or behaving recklessly
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Withdrawing or feeling isolated in social situations
- Displaying extreme mood swings
When to seek professional help immediately?
- Talking about immediate harm to oneself or others
- Planning to attempt suicide (for example, searching online for information about how to attempt suicide)
- Acting in such an erratic manner that you are concerned about their safety
If you notice any of these signs and would like to talk with an expert, please contact the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 9-8-8, or text HOME to 741-741
In addition to calling or texting the Lifeline, here are 5 steps you might want to take to help. Click here for more on these steps.
