Suicidal thoughts often do not appear without warning. While not everyone shows obvious signs, recognizing changes in a person's behavior, mood, or actions can help you identify when someone may be struggling and in need of support.
If you notice warning signs, trust your instincts. Reaching out with care and concern can make a meaningful difference.
Immediate Warning Signs
Take immediate action if someone:
- Talks about wanting to die or kill themselves
- Expresses feelings of hopelessness or having no reason to live
- Talks about being a burden to others
- Searches for ways to end their life
- Gives away valued possessions
- Says goodbye to friends or family as if they won't see them again
- Has recently attempted suicide
- Exhibits extreme emotional distress or agitation
If someone is in immediate danger, call 911 or contact 988 right away.
Behavioral Warning Signs
A person may be at increased risk if they:
- Withdraw from friends, family, or activities they once enjoyed
- Isolate themselves from others
- Experience major changes in sleep patterns
- Increase their use of alcohol or other substances
- Engage in reckless or risky behaviors
- Stop taking care of personal hygiene or responsibilities
- Experience a decline in school, work, or daily functioning
- Lose interest in future plans or goals
Emotional Warning Signs
Pay attention to significant changes in mood, including:
- Persistent sadness or depression
- Increased anxiety or panic
- Irritability, anger, or rage
- Feelings of worthlessness or shame
- Extreme mood swings
- Feeling trapped or overwhelmed
- Loss of hope for the future
Sometimes, a sudden improvement in mood after a period of depression can also be a warning sign, as it may indicate a person has made a decision about ending their life.
Warning Signs in Youth
Children and teens may express emotional pain differently than adults. Warning signs may include:
- Changes in friendships or social groups
- Increased conflict with family members
- Declining grades or school attendance
- Talking or writing about death
- Increased risk-taking behaviors
- Loss of interest in hobbies, sports, or activities
- Changes in eating or sleeping habits
- Increased irritability or emotional outbursts
Young people may not directly say they are thinking about suicide. Statements such as "Everyone would be better off without me" or "I wish I could disappear" should always be taken seriously.
What To Do If You Notice Warning Signs
1. Ask Directly
It is okay to ask someone if they are thinking about suicide.
Examples:
- "Are you thinking about hurting yourself?"
- "Have you been having thoughts of suicide?"
- "Are you thinking about ending your life?"
Research shows that asking about suicide does not increase the risk or put the idea in someone's head.
2. Listen Without Judgment
- Stay calm.
- Let them talk.
- Avoid minimizing their feelings.
- Focus on understanding rather than solving the problem immediately.
3. Help Them Connect to Support
Encourage them to:
- Contact a trusted friend or family member
- Reach out to a mental health professional
- Call or text 988 for support
- Seek emergency help if they are in immediate danger
4. Stay Connected
Follow up after the conversation. Continued support and connection can reduce feelings of isolation and help someone feel seen and valued.
Risk Factors
While warning signs indicate a person may be struggling now, certain factors can increase suicide risk:
- Mental health conditions
- Substance use disorders
- Previous suicide attempts
- Exposure to suicide or suicide loss
- Trauma or abuse
- Chronic illness or pain
- Relationship problems
- Financial or legal stress
- Access to lethal means
Having risk factors does not mean someone will attempt suicide, but it may increase the need for support and monitoring.