Warning Signs
We believe suicide is preventable. One of the first steps to prevention is being able to recognize warning signs of someone in crisis. Unlike risk factors, warning signs indicate that a person is likely in a crisis right now and is need of assistance. These include verbal, mood, and behavioral signs, and knowing how to recognize them can make the difference in saving a life.
Behavioral Warning Signs
Changes in behavior are most often noticed by those close to someone in crisis. If someone you know doesn’t seem like themself, don’t be afraid to ask them how they’re doing and seek assistance if needed.
While not signs, these are common behavioral warning signs of those in crisis:
Increased drug or alcohol use or recent relapse in sobriety.
Acquiring a gun or stockpiling pills.
Researching suicide methods or writing a suicide note.
Putting affairs in order or giving away prized possessions.
Withdrawing from activities (isolation is very common, especially in teens).
Sleeping too much or too little.
Aggression (more common for males) and/or irritability.
Sudden change in interest in religion.
Verbal Warning Signs
Those is crisis can often change the way they talk, both in direct and indirect communication. While not an all-inclusive list, these are common phrases you might hear from someone who is in crisis.
Direct:
“I want to kill myself.”
“If _____ doesn’t happen, I’m going to kill myself.”
“I’m going to end it all.”
Indirect:
“People would be better off without me.”
“I just want out.”
“I’m so tired of life.”
“I wish I could just go to sleep and not wake up.”
If you hear phrases similar to these, it’s important not to push them aside or make the person feel invalidated. It may be uncomfortable, but the best thing you can do is ask how they are and get them help as needed.
Mood Warning Signs
Just like changes in behavior, a change in overall mood can be a warning sign that someone is in crisis. These moods can include:
Depression.
Anxiety.
Loss of interest and/or motivation.
Shame/humiliation.
Anger.
Hopelessness.
Relief/sudden improvement.
Keep in mind these moods may come and go, or may not be present at all. The biggest thing to watch for is an overall change from the person’s usual mood.