Changes in speech
- Talking about wanting to die
- Feeling hopeless, trapped, in unbearable pain, ashamed, or like a burden
- Frequent talk about death or saying goodbye
Changes in behavior
- Withdrawing from people or activities
- Giving away valued possessions or putting affairs in order
- Taking dangerous risks
- Sleeping or eating much more or less
- Increasing alcohol or drug use
Changes in mood
- Extreme mood swings
- Marked anxiety, agitation, rage, guilt, or shame
- A sudden shift in mood after severe distress
Look for change and combinations
A single sign does not diagnose someone. Pay particular attention when several changes appear together, are new or increasing, follow a painful event, or feel sharply out of character.
Warning signs are not the same as risk factors
Risk factors can shape vulnerability over time. Warning signs are observable changes that may suggest an emerging or immediate crisis. Neither should be treated as destiny.
When to act urgently
An active attempt, immediate physical danger, or urgent medical need requires emergency help. If a person says they are thinking about suicide, expresses a current intent to act, sends a goodbye message, or you cannot establish safety, stay with them and contact 988 or emergency services as appropriate.
What to do after you notice
- Ask directly about suicide.
- Listen without judgment.
- Do not promise secrecy.
- Stay present if danger may be immediate.
- Connect with 988 or qualified care.
- Follow up after the first conversation.