Warning Signs of Suicide

Suicide is complicated and tragic, but it is often preventable. Knowing the warning signs and how to get help can save lives.  According to the National Institute of Mental Health, the behaviors listed below may be a sign that someone is thinking about suicide. If these warning signs apply to you or someone you know, get help as soon as possible, particularly if the behavior is new or has increased.

Talking About:

• Wanting to die empty
• Great guilt or shame
• Being a burden to others

Feeling:

• Empty, hopeless, trapped, or having no reason to live
• Extremely sad, more anxious, agitated or full of rage
• Unbearable emotional or physical pain

Changing Behaviors, Such As:

• Making plans or researching ways to die
• Withdrawing from friends, saying good bye, giving away important items, or making a will
• Taking dangerous risks such as driving extremely fast
• Displaying extreme mood swings
• Eating or sleeping more or less
• Using drugs or drinking more often