by Kate Evans
The National Suicide and Crisis helpline and other prevention resources list these following behaviors as possible warning signs that someone is at risk for suicide.
The suicide risk is greater if a behavior is new or has increased and if it seems linked to a painful life experience.
If you or someone you know shows any of these signs, seek help as soon as possible.
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
If you need help, call or text 9-8-8 now. You will be routed to the closest possible crisis center in your area.
You can also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or call 911 or a local mental health professional.
Don’ t leave the person alone until you can get them to a mental health counselor.
Always take these suicide warning signs seriously:
—Talking or posting about wanting to die or wanting to kill themselves.
—Looking for ways to kill themselves, such as online searches or buying a gun.
—Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.
—Feeling trapped or being in unbearable pain.
—Talking about being a burden to others.
—Increased use of alcohol or drugs.
—Sleeping too much or too little.
—Increased anxiety, anger or rage.
—Withdrawing or isolating themselves from friends, family and others.
—Change in eating pattern or significant weight change.
—Neglect of personal appearance.
—Exhibiting extreme mood swings and abrupt changes in personality.
—Displaying depression or deep sadness.
—Doing poorly at school or work.
—Loss of interest in favorite activities.
—Giving away prized possessions.
—Making a will.
—Making plans for suicide.
