The Warning Signs of Suicide
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. It's VERY crucial that we see, understand, and LISTEN.
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 and actions steps are necessary.
Other common warning signs include:
Becoming depressed or withdrawn
Behaving recklessly
Getting affairs in order and giving away valued possessions
Showing a marked change in behavior, attitudes or appearance
Abusing drugs or alcohol
Suffering a major loss or life change
The following list gives more examples, all of which can be signs that somebody is thinking of suicide (suicidal ideation). 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
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
Crying
Fighting
Breaking the law
Impulsiveness
Self-mutilation
Writing about death and suicide
Previous suicidal behavior
Extremes of behavior
Changes in behavior
Searching the internet for sites about suicide or suicide methods
Physical Changes
Lack of energy
Disturbed sleep patterns - sleeping too much or too little
Loss of appetite
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
The most important step is to talk to someone. People who feel suicidal should not try to cope alone. They should seek help NOW. Time is crucial.
Talk to family or friends. Just talking to a family member or a friend or a colleague can bring huge relief.
Talk to a befriender. Some people cannot talk to family or friends. Some find it easier to talk to a stranger. There are befriending centers all over the world, with volunteers who have been trained to listen. If calling is too difficult, the person can send an email; some centers provide face-to-face help for people who drop by, and some provide help by internet one-to-one chat and respond to SMS text messages.
Talk to a doctor. If someone is going through a longer period of feeling low or suicidal, he or she may be suffering from clinical depression. This is a medical condition and can usually be treated by a doctor through the prescription of drugs and/or a referral to therapy. Other mental health problems, as well as substance abuse increase the risk of suicidal thoughts, and these can be treated. The first step is to see a doctor or mental health professional.
Time is an important factor in ‘moving on', but what happens in that time also matters. When someone is feeling suicidal, they should talk about their feelings immediately and NEVER leave a suicidal person alone.
Suicide Prevention Class
Hope Gatekeepers provides free online suicide prevention classes. Just as you believe in CPR classes to hopefully save a life—we believe taking a suicide prevention class may save a life.
Mental Health Checkup
September 24, 2021, Hope Gatekeepers will start visiting our communities to bring HOPE. Join us as we educate our communities about suicide prevention and mental health awareness.
Events
Our events are uplifting and inspirational for those who lost a loved one to suicide or just have a heart for supporting our communities. Hope Gatekeepers are hope givers and will continue to support families affected by suicide.