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

Suicide Risk
You Can help
It is a myth that asking someone about suicide actually creates suicidal thoughts. Talking to individuals about suicide does not increase their risk. Ask the question - Are you thinking about suicide? or Are you considering harming or killing yourself? or Have things often gotten so bad that you don't care if you live or die?
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Warning Signs
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Risk May Be Greater
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Following a tragic event or loss.
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If the individual increases use of alcohol or drugs.
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If the individual behaves in a reckless or agitated manner.
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If the individual identifies as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or questioning.
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If the individual is a military veteran.
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If the individual has experience the loss of someone to suicide.
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For American Indians and Alaska Natives.
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The Do's
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DO trust your intuition.
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DO call 911 if you are concerned for an individual's immediate safety or if an individual needs immediate attention.
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Do stay calm
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DO take you time and be patient when responding to someone at risk.
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DO listen carefully to better understand the individual's concerns.
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DO take concerns seriously.
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DO offer hope, reasons to be hopeful, alternatives to the situation, resource information and information on how helpful treatment can be.
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DO urge the individuals to accept professional support. Consider making a phone call to a mental health resource to connect the individual to appropriate services.
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DO access resources by campus
Ashtabula | College of Podiatric Medicine | East Liverpool | Geauga | Kent | Twinsburg Academic Center | Salem | Stark | Trumbull | Tuscarawas
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The Don'ts
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DON'T ignore the warning signs.
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DON'T leave someone alone if there is a risk of self-harm.
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DON'T minimize the situation.
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DON'T make the problem your own.
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DON'T argue or try to change the individual's emotions.
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Suicide Prevention Resources
The following suicide prevention resources may be helpful: