Suicide Warning Signs |
| Suicide is complicated and tragic, but it is often preventable. Knowing the warning signs for suicide and how to get help can help save lives. Recognizing that someone may be considering suicide can be uniquely challenging. Some people will display external signs that they’re at risk or will be vocal about their considerations. Others make an effort to conceal their suicidal ideation and hide their intentions from others. If you think someone is suicidal, do not leave them alone. Encourage them to seek immediate help from their doctor or go to the nearest hospital emergency room. If they will not seek help, call 911. |
WARNING SIGNS OF SUICIDE Talking about:
Feeling:
| CHANGING BEHAVIOR SUCH AS:
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 recently. If you feel there is an eminent danger of suicide, dial 911. (Eminent danger, often used interchangeably with imminent danger, refers to an immediate and ongoing threat that leaves no time to prevent harm through ordinary procedures or intervention.) |
SIGNS LOOK DIFFERENT FOR EVERY INDIVIDUAL Suicide warning signs can look different from person to person, but they often appear as noticeable changes in what someone says, feels, or does. A person may talk about wanting to die, feeling hopeless, feeling trapped, being in unbearable emotional or physical pain, or believing they are a burden to others. These statements should always be taken seriously, especially if they are new, have become more frequent, or follow a painful event, loss, or major life change. Behavioral changes can also be warning signs. Someone at risk may withdraw from friends or family, sleep much more or much less than usual, increase their use of alcohol or drugs, act anxious or agitated, behave recklessly, give away important belongings, say goodbye, or begin searching for ways to harm themselves. Extreme mood swings, rage, or sudden calm after a period of distress can also signal that a person may need immediate support. If you notice these signs in yourself or someone else, do not ignore them or assume they will pass. Stay with the person if possible, listen without judgment, remove access to anything that could be used for self-harm when it is safe to do so, and reach out for help right away. In the United States, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or call emergency services if there is immediate danger. |
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