Warning signs of suicide

Warning signs of suicide

The more of these signs a person shows, the greater the risk. Warning signs are associated with suicide but may not be what causes a suicide:

- Talking about wanting to die.

- Looking for a way to kill oneself.

- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no purpose.

- Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain.

- Talking about being a burden to others.

- Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.

- Acting anxious, agitated or recklessly.

- Sleeping too much or too little.

- Withdrawing or feeling isolated.

- Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.

- Displaying extreme mood swings.

What to do

If someone you know shows warning signs of suicide:

- Do not leave the person alone.

- Remove any firearms, alcohol, drugs or sharp objects that could be used in a suicide attempt.

- Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

- Take the person to an emergency room, seek help from a medical or mental health professional or call 911.

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