Signs and Symptoms

The behaviors listed below may be some of the signs that someone is thinking about suicide.

Talking About:

• Wanting to die
• Great guilt or shame
• Being a burden to others

Feeling:

• Empty, hopeless, trapped, or having no reason to live
• Extremely sad, more anxious, agitated, or full or rage
• Unbearable emotional or physical pain

Changing Behavior, Such As:

• Making a plan or researching ways to die
• Withdrawing from friends, saying goodbye, giving away important items, or making a will
• Taking dangerous risks such as driving extremely fast
• Displaying extreme mood swings
• Eating or sleeping more or less
• Using drugs or alcohol more often

If these warning signs apply to you or someone you know, get help as soon as possible, particularly if the behavior is new or has increased recently.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988

Crisis Text Line
Text "HELLO" to 741741 Chat at 988lifeline.org

People who are considering suicide may show signs that they are thinking about or planning to attempt suicide. These are known as warning signs of suicide. It can be scary when someone you care about may be considering suicide, but there are things you can do to help. This fact sheet can help you recognize common warning signs that may indicate a person is at risk of suicide. It also provides tips on how to respond if you observe these warning signs in someone and when to seek immediate professional help.

Common Warning Signs of Suicide

Talking about:

• Attempting suicide
• Feeling unbearable pain
• Death or a recent fascination with death
• Feeling hopeless, worthless, or "trapped"
• Feeling guilt, shame, or anger Feeling like they are a burden to others

Changes in behavior or mood:

• Recent suicide attempt
• Planning a suicide attempt
• Increased alcohol or drug use
• Losing interest in personal appearance or hygiene
• Withdrawing from family, friends, or community
• Saying goodbye to friends and family
• Giving away prized possessions
• A recent episode of depression, emotional distress, and/or anxiety
• Changes in eating patterns
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Becoming violent or being a victim of violence
• Expressing rage Recklessness

When to Seek Professional Help Immediately

Some behaviors may indicate an emergency is happening or that a person is in crisis. If you observe the following behaviors, you should immediately connect the person with professional help, such as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, emergency medical services, or a mental health professional.

• Talking about immediate harm to oneself or others
• Planning to attempt suicide (for example, searching online for information about how to attempt suicide)
• Acting in such an erratic manner that you are concerned about their safety

If the person in crisis is unwilling or unable to seek professional help, or if you are struggling yourself, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline to ask for guidance and support.

Disclaimer
The content of this fact sheet is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute or substitute for medical or clinical advice, consultation, diagnosis, intervention, or treatment from a licensed health care professional.