Warning Signs of Suicide
Understanding the warning signs, risk factors, and protective factors associated with suicide is essential for identifying individuals who may be at risk. It’s important to note that suicide is a complex issue influenced by various factors, and no single factor or set of factors can predict it with absolute certainty.
Call 911 or your local emergency service if you see or hear the following:
- Threatening to hurt or kill themself or talking about wanting to die, especially if they have a weapon or dangerous item.
- Seeking access to dangerous items to hurt or kill themself in a moment of despair—whether that is online or in-person.
- Talking, writing, or posting on social media about dying by suicide.
Warning Signs
Warning signs of suicide are observable behaviors, actions, or expressions that may indicate that someone is at risk of attempting or thinking about suicide.
- Talking about suicide, expressing thoughts like “I want to kill myself” or “I wish I were dead”
- Acquiring means to take one’s own life, like buying a gun or stockpiling pills
- Withdrawing from social contact and desiring isolation
- Experiencing mood swings, going from emotional highs to deep discouragement
- Showing fixation on death, dying, or violence
- Expressing feelings of being a burden to others
- Feeling trapped or hopeless in a situation
- Increasing use of alcohol or drugs
- Changing normal routine, including eating or sleeping patterns
- Engaging in risky or self-destructive behaviors, such as substance abuse or reckless driving
- Giving away possessions or organizing affairs without an apparent reason
- Saying goodbye to people as if it’s the final farewell
- Displaying personality changes, severe anxiety, or agitation.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for suicide are characteristics or circumstances that increase an individual’s likelihood of experiencing suicidal thoughts or engaging in suicidal behaviors. Having risk factors does not necessarily mean a person will attempt suicide.
- Mental health issues: Most people who die by suicide have a diagnosed mental health condition, such as depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia.
- Previous suicide attempts: A history of previous suicide attempts is a significant risk factor for future attempts.
- Family history: A family history of suicide or mental health issues can increase an individual’s risk.
- Substance abuse: Alcohol or drug abuse increases the risk of suicide.
- Access to lethal means: Easy access to lethal methods, such as firearms, can increase the likelihood of suicide.
- Chronic illness or pain: Chronic physical or emotional pain can contribute to suicidal thoughts.
- Isolation: Social isolation and a lack of support can increase vulnerability.
- Recent loss or trauma: Experiencing recent losses, such as the death of a loved one or a job loss, can be risk factors.
- Impulsivity: Impulsive behavior or a history of impulsive acts increases risk.
- Gender: Men are more likely to die by suicide, while women are more likely to attempt suicide.
Protective Factors
Protective factors are characteristics, conditions, or factors that can reduce an individual’s risk of suicide.
- Strong social support: Having a network of friends and family who provide emotional support can be protective.
- Access to mental health care: Having access to mental health treatment and support can reduce risk.
- Problem-solving skills: Effective problem-solving skills and coping strategies can help individuals manage stress and adversity.
- Positive life events: Positive life changes, such as marriage or the birth of a child, can be protective.
- Sense of purpose: Having a sense of purpose or meaning in life can be a protective factor.
- Connectedness: Feeling connected to a community, cultural, or religious group can be protective.
- Lethal means safety: Limiting access to lethal methods, such as securing firearms, can reduce risk.
Connect to SAVE Lives
We believe in the power of connection to create positive change! Whether you’re interested in volunteering, donating, or simply learning more about our mission, we invite you to get in touch.