Warning Signs
Suicide is rarely a spur of the moment decision. In the days and
hours before people kill themselves, there are usually clues and
warning signs.
The strongest and
most disturbing signs are verbal – ‘I can’t go
on,’ ‘Nothing matters any more’ or even ‘I’m
thinking of ending it all.’ Such remarks should always be taken
seriously. Of course, in most cases these situations do not lead to
suicide. But, generally, the more signs a person displays, the higher
the risk of suicide.
Situations
- Suffering a major
loss or life change
- Family history of
suicide or violence
- Sexual or
physical abuse
- Death of a close
friend or family member
- Divorce or
separation, ending a relationship
- Failing academic
performance, impending exams, exam results
- Job loss,
problems at work
- Impending legal
action
- Recent
imprisonment or upcoming release
Behaviors
- Showing a marked
change in behavior, attitudes or appearance
- Crying
- Fighting
- Behaving
recklessly
- Breaking the
law
- Impulsiveness
- Abusing drugs or
alcohol
- Self-mutilation
- Writing about
death and suicide
- Previous suicidal
behavior
- Extremes of
behavior
- Changes in
behavior
- Getting affairs
in order and giving away valued possessions
Physical
Changes
- Lack of
energy
- Disturbed sleep
patterns – sleeping too much or too little
- Loss of
appetite
- Becoming
depressed or withdrawn
- Sudden weight
gain or loss
- Increase in minor
illnesses
- Change of sexual
interest
- Sudden change in
appearance
- Lack of interest
in appearance
Thoughts and
Emotions
- Thoughts of
suicide
- Loneliness –
lack of support from family and friends
- Rejection,
feeling marginalized
- Deep sadness or
guilt
- Unable to see
beyond a narrow focus
- Daydreaming
- Anxiety and
stress
- Helplessness
- Loss of
self-worth