Warning Signs

We don’t know for sure, because when youth die by suicide they take the answers with them.   
​What we DO know is that a large number of suicidal youths share similar experiences, changes in behavior and/or thoughts. 

 We call these similarities “warning signs of suicide.”  A warning sign does not automatically mean a person is going to attempt suicide, but it should be taken seriously. The warning signs that we pay particular attention to are: ​

• ​Experiencing dramatic mood changes
• Seeing no reason for living or having no sense of purpose in life
• Giving away possessions
• Feeling hopeless
• Impulsive and/or aggressive tendencies​

• Mental disorders, mood disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety and certain personality disorders
• History of trauma or abuse
• Some major physical illnesses
• Previous suicide attempt
• Family history of suicide
• Job or financial loss
• Relational or social loss​

• Threatening to hurt or kill oneself or talking about wanting to hurt or kill oneself
• Looking for ways to kill oneself by seeking access to firearms, available pills, or other means
• Increasing alcohol or drug use
• Talking or writing about death, dying, or suicide when these actions are out of the ordinary for the person​

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• Feeling trapped – like there’s no way out
• Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities – seemingly without thinking
• Feeling rage or uncontrolled anger or seeking revenge
• ​​Seeing no reason for living or having no sense of purpose in life​​
• Withdrawing from friends, family, and society​​

You are not alone.  
To get help for yourself or someone you know,
​call the Suicide Lifeline at 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433).