Signs Someone May Be Contemplating Suicide
It can sometimes be hard to tell when someone you care about is thinking about suicide, but there are some common signs to look out for, particularly if they are new or have recently become more frequent or intense. Recognizing these signs can be an important first step towards getting help for someone at risk for suicide. Warning signs include:
- Talking or thinking about wanting to die or wanting to kill oneself
- Feeling hopeless, shame, or intense guilt
- Actively researching or planning for a way to kill oneself
- Increased social isolation; withdrawing from friends and family
- Increased alcohol and drug usage
- A fixation on death
- Saying goodbyes or giving away belongings
- Feeling like a burden
- Pain perceived to be unbearable
- Feeling trapped or like there is no solution to one’s problems
- Extreme shift in mood (including a sudden improvement in mood)
For a more exhaustive list of warning signs, please visit:
If you or someone else you know are experiencing these warning signs or thinking about suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741, or chat with a trained professional at https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat/