What Are the Warning Signs Of Suicidal Ideation?
It is not possible to list all of the potential warning signs that may suggest that a person may be thinking about harming themselves. The following list identifies some behaviors/symptoms to look for. • Talking about suicide: A person may make direct statements such as “I want to kill myself” or indirect statements such as “this world would be a better place without me.” • Pattern of changes in behavior: Significant increase or decrease in sleep, significant increase or decrease in eating, decreased interest and participation in activities, a significant decrease in academic performance, increased engagement in impulsive risk-taking behavior, decrease in mood, or a sudden marked increase in mood. • Feelings of hopelessness: The person conveys the belief that things will never get better. • Preparations for death: Purchase of or possession of the means to kill oneself, giving away one’s possessions or writing a will. • Recent experience of loss: The recent death of a family member or c
