These warning signs may mean that someone is at risk of suicide. Risk is greater if a behavior is new or has increased and seems related to a painful event or loss
Immediate Warning Signs:
- Talking or writing about suicide
- Has a plan
- Expressing hopelessness about the future
- Making preparations for suicide (giving away belongings, writing a suicide note, looking for means to attempt suicide)
Other Warning Signs:
- Unusual fatigue/more energy
- Lack of concentration
- Changes in hygiene
- Increasing use of alcohol, drugs or other risky behavior
- Increasingly agitated, anxious, sad, angry
- Withdrawing from social activities
- Spending more time alone or isolating
- Experience of loss
- Academic problems
If you think someone you know might be suicidal, ask directly,
“Are you thinking about suicide?”
If they answer yes:
- Ask about a plan
- Listen; threats about suicide must be taken seriously
- Be non-judgmental and offer empathy
- Do not leave them alone
- Connect them with professional help
- Continuously follow up
- Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline with them, 1-800-273-8255
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