Warning Signs of Suicide

Suicide is complex and determined by multiple combinations of factors, such as mental illness, substance misuse, chronic illness, trauma, painful losses, exposure to violence, and social isolation.

Below are the warning signs of suicide for youth and adults. Act if you notice these signs among a family members, friend, neighbor, coworker, or others. Suicide risk is greater if a behavior is new or has increased, and if it seems related to a painful event, loss, or change.

Adult Suicide Warning Signs

• Talking about or making plans for suicide.
• Acting anxious, agitated, or behaving recklessly.
• Talking about being a burden to others.
• Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain.
• Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.
• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.
• Sleeping too little or too much.
• Withdrawing or feeling isolated.
• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.
• Displaying extreme mood swings.
• Chronic illness or serious physical health conditions.

Youth Suicide Warning Signs

• Expressing hopelessness about the future.
• Displaying severe or overwhelming emotional pain or distress.
• Increased physical symptoms—such as fatigue, headaches, and stomachaches—commonly associated with emotional distress.
• Changing or withdrawing from social connections or situations.
• Changes in sleep (increased or decreased).
• Anger or hostility that seems out of character or out of context.
• Recent increased agitation or irritability.

Resources:

https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/suicidal-behavior

https://www.samhsa.gov/about/digital-toolkits/suicide-prevention-month

https://www.samhsa.gov/find-support

https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/suicidal-behavior/resources

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available.

Call or text: 988      Chat: 988lifeline.org

You’ll be able to speak with a trained crisis counselor any time of day or night.