Suicide Warning Signs
Warning signs indicate that someone may be
suicidal. They show that something is very wrong. Though they appear
clear and concrete they are often hard to see in someone that we are close
to or in ourselves. Warning signs are not always present, but it is
important that they be identified when they are evident.
● Hopelessness, worthlessness,
feeling a loss of control, helplessness
● Threatening to harm
oneself or completing suicide
● Having a definite plan
for completing suicide
● Acquiring the means to
complete suicide (e.g, getting a gun)
● Rehearsing or visiting a
place to complete suicide
● Increased use of alcohol
and/or drugs
● Changes in eating,
sleeping, and personal care Apathy, lack of energy, inability to focus
● Talking or writing about
death, drawing images of death
● Withdrawing from social
relationships or activities
● Losing interest in
hobbies, work, school
● Giving away highly valued
personal items or possessions
● Undergoing significant
changes in mood and personality
● Engaging in reckless or
dangerous behaviors
● Making a will, funeral
arrangements, or telling others how affairs should be handled
For more about warning signs see
"Understanding
and Helping the Suicidal Person" from the
American Association of Suicidology
See also "Suicide Help" from the Mental Health Association of Southeastern PA
