Warning Signs
* Signs of depression
* Sadness
* Loss of sleep or excessive sleep
* Loss of appetite or overeating
* Sense of hopelessness or worthlessness
* Noticeable change in behavior
* Alcohol and drug abuse
* Decline in performance of work, school, or other activities
* Reckless behavior
* Giving away favorite possessions
* Purchase of gun or pills
* Sudden happiness after prolonged depression
* Preoccupation with death and dying
* Withdrawal from friends or family
* Statements like, “You won’t have to worry about me anymore,” “I want to go to sleep and never wake up”
* Threats of suicide
Risk Factors
* Previous suicide attempt
* Loss of health (real or imagined)
* Divorce, separation, or broken relationship
* Death or terminal illness of a loved one
* Loss of job, home, money
* Family history of suicide
* Depression
* Someone close to individual has completed suicide
What To Do
* Take suicide threats seriously
* Ask questions
* Listen in a non-judgmental way – “I’m here for you,” “Let’s talk”
* Take action – get individual connected with professional help
* For Help Call 1-800-SUICIDE or 1-800-784-2433
What NOT To Do
* Do not keep suicide threats a secret
* Do not act shocked or condemn
* Do not point out how much better off they are than others
* Do not interject your own problems and feelings
* Do not suggest drugs and alcohol as a solution
* Do not minimize the person’s feelings and do not offer simple solutions
* Do not leave the person alone
* Do not try to be a therapist – get professional help