How to recognize suicide warning signs

One of the misconceptions about suicide is that only the clinically depressed think about it. Suicidal thoughts can come momentarily and suddenly, accompanying feelings of hopelessness - a belief that no viable option exists. Such feelings are often temporary, so attempted suicides may be prevented with the help of someone who notices the warning signs and offers hope, reminding them that one thing they can count on in life is change.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Professional help (schools, colleges, United Way, and some workplaces offer resources), and a 24/7 hotline (800) 273-TALK.

1. Suicide warning signs include some or all of these:
   
   Talk: Threatening to hurt or kill oneself, or talking/writing about writing about death, dying, or suicide.

2. Isolation: Withdrawing from friends, family, and society.

3. Emotions: Feeling hopeless; dramatic mood swings; rage or uncontrolled anger; or feeling trapped, like there's no way out. Expressing a lack of reason to live.

4. Harmful behaviors: Looking for the tools by seeking access to firearms, pills, or other means; increased alcohol or drug use.

5. Sleep changes: Unable to sleep or sleeping all the time.

Tips & Warnings

• If the depressed person won't talk about their feelings with you, suggest they call a hotline, like (800) 273 TALK (8255) for anonymous support. Remind them they're not a "freak" for having these feelings; everybody gets depressed sometimes and anyone can feel hopeless.
• If the person does not live near you and you feel an attempt is imminent, you can call 911 and ask police for a "welfare check" on the individual.
• For more information, see www.suicidology.org
• If in doubt, don't hesitate to act upon concerns by reaching out. Better to be wrong than risk a life.
• Professional counseling is best, so after imminent danger has passed, encourage the person to seek it so these feelings don't come back. Perhaps you can help make the call and drive them to the appointment.

[silenthelper21]

on 11/12/2008 sometimes people dont know when a loved one will do something to hurt themsleves. its not your fault, if she didnt kill herself then, then she might be absolutely horrible if she was alive this day. i dont know, but i believe she was forgiven for her sins and is living in peace with the angels and saints in heaven...

[Sholeh]

on 9/15/2008 Sweetlo - I'm so sorry for your loss. Sometimes, the depression is so deep and the loved one keeps it all hidden from those who love him/her. It's not your fault. - Sholeh

[sweetleo]

on 9/13/2008 I wish i had read this six and a half years ago, I may have been able to stop my daughter from her suicide *****