Suicidal Warning Signs

The fact is, most people who are thinking of suicide don’t really want to die. They just need someone to lead them toward a better solution.

Eight out of 10 people who are considering suicide give warning signs of their intent. It’s important to know the signs that indicate a person may be suicidal and know how to respond.

Here are some warning signs of suicidal thinking:

• Expressing strong feelings of hopelessness or having no reason to live

• Talking about being a burden to others or feeling trapped

• Withdrawing from activities, friends, and family

• Getting affairs in order, including tying up loose ends or giving away prized possessions

• Having an unusual preoccupation with death or dying

• Loss of interest in personal appearance or hygiene

• Increased use of alcohol or drugs

• Extreme anxiety or agitation

• Inability to sleep or sleeping all the time

• Drastic changes in behavior or personality

• Acting recklessly, as if having a death wish (for example, speeding through red lights)

• Expressions of rage, irritability, uncontrolled anger, aggressive behavior

• Changing suddenly from being extremely depressed to acting calm and happy

• Contacting people to say goodbye

• Looking for a way to kill themselves, such as searching online for methods or means

• Making comments such as:

  • “Everyone would be better off without me.”

  • “I want out.”

  • “I’m done.”

  • “If so and so doesn’t happen, I’ll kill myself.“

  • “I wish I could go to sleep and not wake up.“

People often assume these remarks are just casual statements, but we should always them seriously.

If you think a person is considering suicide, express your concern and ask if they’re thinking about ending their life. Remain calm and listen without judgment. Allowing a person to talk openly about their suicidal thoughts and feelings is the first step to getting life-saving help.