Warning Signs

It is important to know that suicidal thoughts or feelings may be present for individuals experiencing depression or other mental health concerns. 

Warning Signs that someone may be at risk of suicide may include:

• Talking or writing about death, dying or suicide
• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
• Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
• Talking about being a burden to others
• Threatening to hurt or kill oneself
• Seeking access to pills, weapons, or other means to kill oneself
• Giving away personal or prized possessions
• Displaying extreme mood swings
• Taking unnecessary risks/engaging in reckless behaviors
• Increased use of alcohol and/or drugs
• Withdrawing from friends and family
• Having made previous suicide attempt(s)

Typically, the more warning signs observed, the greater the risk, especially when they indicate a change from the person’s usual mood or behavior. Risk may also increase following a tragic event or loss, if the individual increases their use of alcohol or drugs, and if the individual behaves in a reckless or agitated manner. It is important to take all signs seriously.