Warning signs of suicide

Suicide can be prevented. While some suicides occur without any outward warning, most people who are suicidal do give warnings.

The following information is provided by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

Prevent the suicide of loved ones by learning to recognize the signs of someone at risk, taking those signs seriously and knowing how to respond to them.

Warning signs of suicide include:

Observable signs of serious depression:

Unrelenting low mood

Pessimism

Feelings of Hopelessness and/or helplessness

Desperation

Anxiety, psychic pain and inner tension

Withdrawal from activities that previously afforded pleasure

Isolation

Sleep problems

Irritability

Physical complaints: stomach aches, headaches

Increased alcohol and/or other drug use

Recent impulsiveness and taking unnecessary risks

Threatening suicide or expressing a strong wish to die

Making a plan is a sign:

Giving away prized possessions

Sudden or impulsive purchase of a firearm

Obtaining other means of killing oneself such as poisons or medications

Unexpected rage or anger

The emotional crises that usually precede suicide are often recognizable and treatable. Although most depressed people are not suicidal, most suicidal people are depressed. One can help prevent suicide through early recognition and treatment of depression and other psychiatric illnesses.