Save a Life: Know the Warning Signs of Suicide

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No one wants to think about their loved ones choosing to end their lives. However, the percentage of people who have either thought of or attempted suicide skyrocketed over the last decade. Year after year, the number of people who have lost their lives to suicide has increased exponentially. Plus, suicide is now one of the main causes of adolescent death. Most people probably know someone who has either attempted or considered suicide. So, knowing the warning signs of suicide can save a life.

The Warning Signs of Suicide

Note: If you or anyone else is in immediate danger, call 911, 988, or your national suicide helpline.

Talking About Wanting to Die

Contrary to popular belief, very few people commit suicide without showing any of the signs. Many people who end up taking their lives mention wanting to die to at least one person.

However, people may not outright say, “I want to die” or “I want to commit suicide.” Instead, some are afraid of outright referring to their death, and they cushion it in softer language, such as, “I don’t want to be here anymore,” or “I just want to be gone.”

Regardless of how indirect the person is being, you need to speak directly. Ask them outright “Are you considering killing yourself?” to get a precise yes or no answer.

Some people worry that talking about suicide will cause a suicidal person to go through with it. However, scientific research does not support this. Therapists outright ask people about their intent to kill themselves as a suicide prevention measure.

Therapists on Talkspace often deal with people who want to commit suicide. So, if you know someone who wants to take their own life, make them a Talkspace profile and have them match with a counselor who can provide assistance.

Feeling Guilty or Ashamed

In addition, a suicidal person may talk about feeling guilty or ashamed. This is especially true of people who have experienced trauma.

So, if someone you know starts experiencing excessive guilt or shame, ask them whether they’re thinking of ending their life. Regardless of their answer, encourage them to seek professional help.

Experiencing Extreme Emotions

Most people who attempt suicide experience extreme emotional pain before they end their lives. People often commit suicide not because they want to die but because living feels too unbearable.

Here are some examples of emotional conditions that can lead to suicide:

Depression
Anxiety
Grief
Anger or agitation
Guilt and shame (as mentioned above)
Markedly drastic mood swings

In particular, take note of any noticeable changes in the person’s overall emotional demeanor. If you see one, ask the person about it.

It’s important to note that not all people with suicidal ideation show their pain to other people, though. That’s why it’s important to know the other warning signs of suicide.

If the emotional pain becomes difficult to handle, meet with a counselor from Cerebral to get support for what’s going on.

Changing Behaviors

Sometimes, the most noticeable warning signs occur in the form of changed behavior. For example, some people who commit suicide withdraw from friends and family for some time. So, if you notice someone in your life pulling away from everyone for an inexplicable reason, check up on them.

The person may also go longer without bathing or taking care of their personal hygiene. They may struggle to eat or sleep, or they may sleep excessively. Their performances at work or school may drop, and they may have low energy.

On the other hand, some suicidal people also take dangerous risks, such as driving too fast.

Finally, you may notice the person using substances more often or researching/planning ways to die.

What to Do If You Notice the Warning Signs

So, you’ve seen some of the warning signs of suicide in a person you know. Right now, you’re probably freaking out, so let’s take a moment to say: that’s normal. Take a deep breath, then release it. Your calm and collected thinking has the opportunity to save a life.

Your first job is to determine how pressing the risk is. If a person answers “Yes” to “Are you thinking of killing yourself?” your next question needs to be “Do you have a plan to do it?” If they do, you need to take them to the hospital immediately. Do not let the person out of your sight until they are admitted.

If they don’t have a plan, you have more time, but you still need to take action. Contact a mental health therapist and book the earliest open appointment for the person.

To find a person who can help your loved one, take a look at PlushCare. On this platform, your loved one will get matched with a personal therapist or doctor who can help them get the care they need.

If you’re looking for a medical prescription, Ro serves as a great option. They treat a variety of conditions, from sexual dysfunction to hair loss.

Learn More About Mental Health

The warning signs of suicide comprise the most important things to know about assisting in a mental health crisis. However, we also recommend getting mental health first aid certified. That way, you’ll feel confident stepping in should a mental health emergency arise.