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Know the Warning Signs & How to Get Help

Warning Signs

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of the signs listed below, please call us immediately — even if you’re not sure.
 Dial 988. We are here for you.

While some suicides occur without warning, most people who die of suicide show two or more of the following warning signs within two months of their death.

Statements or Threats of Suicide (Direct or Hinting)

This may seem obvious but these comments are oftentimes ignored. People may think threats of suicide are bids for attention. It is important to take these statements seriously because people who talk about suicide are asking for someone to listen and help.

Preoccupation with death and/or hopelessness

People with thoughts of suicide may talk about death more than usual, may make statements like “I wish I were dead” or “This would be so much easier if I was gone.” This may also come out in art or journaling. 

Drug and Alcohol Use

One half of people who kill themselves are intoxicated at the time of their death. This risk increases to 80% among teens and young adults under age 25.

Giving Away Prized Possessions

In preparation for their death, some people give away pets, family heirlooms, and other important possessions to family and friends.

Saying Goodbye

Many people make amends and say their goodbyes to family, friends, and loved ones.

Increased Isolation

When people have thoughts of suicide, they often isolate themselves—not returning phone calls, going out, being social, or participating in activities they used to enjoy. 

Extreme Changes
    • Mood—increased hopelessness, anxiety, anger, or the sense of being overwhelmed
    • Personality—the person seems different or withdrawn
    • Activity level—obvious decrease or increase in activity
    • Appetite—eating too much or too little
    • Sleep patterns—sleeping too much or too little.
Physical Health Complaints

Emotional distress can show up in bodily complaints. People who are very stressed or having thoughts of suicide may experience headaches, lack of sleep or appetite, muscle aches, joint issues, back pain, stomach problems, and other physical conditions. 

Self Injury (Unexplained cuts/burns, frequent "accidents", etc.)

Self-injury by itself is usually not a suicide attempt. It is, however, a sign that someone is going through a lot of emotional pain and may need some help and support. Thoughts of suicide may or may not be present. As with suicide, there is a lot of shame and fear of being rejected or thought of to be “crazy” around self-harm. It is very important to be open, supportive, and willing to ask and talk about self-harm with the person in a nonjudgmental way. 

Sudden Mood Elevation

Changes in mood can be caused by thoughts of suicide. Anger, withdrawing, elation, nervousness, etc. If you notice any changed in someone’s mood, check in on them.

Looking for additional resources? Check out our Resource Center.

Find resources below on suicide prevention for you or someone you care about.

Also visit your:
  • Primary care provider
  • Local psychiatric hospital
  • Local walk-in clinic
  • Local emergency department
  • Local urgent care center

Crisis Services

24/7 Crisis Hotline: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
988lifeline.org

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. Veterans, press 1 when calling.

Crisis Text Line
Text TALK to 741-741 to text with a trained crisis counselor from the Crisis Text Line for free, 24/7

Veterans Crisis Line
Send a text to 838255

Vets4Warriors

SAMHSA Treatment Referral Hotline (Substance Abuse)
1-800-662-HELP (4357)

RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline
1-800-656-HOPE (4673)

National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline
1-866-331-9474

The Trevor Project
1-866-488-7386

Additional resources by mental health condition

Our News on Research, Education and Advocacy Updates

Dial 988

Local Crisis Line:  607.272.1616

LGBTQ+ Peer Support Line: 607.276.1771