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 reckless.

• 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 (800) 273-TALK (8255).

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

Source: www.ReportingOnSuicide.org

Tags: mental illness, news, health, suicide