The following are some of the signs that can indicate that a person might be thinking about suicide. Sometimes these signs are subtle, but they may be a sign that we need to check in with how the person is travelling. Remember suicide is not about dying, it is about ending pain – so if you see any of these signs reach out and start a conversation – it may save a life.
- Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness
- Seeing no purpose to life and having no direction
- Feeling worthless and useless
- Feeling like a burden to others
- Feeling they are trapped, and there is no other way out
- Talking or writing about suicide or wanting to die
- Increased use of alcohol, drugs or medications
- Acting anxious, agitated, or reckless
- Displaying extreme mood swings
- Isolating themselves and withdrawing from things once enjoyed
- Putting their affairs in order
- Calling or posting goodbyes to friends and loved ones
- Giving away valuable possessions
- Taking less care of themselves or their appearance
- Thinking that no one would care if they weren’t around anymore
- Thinking that no one would care if they weren’t around anymore
- Stresses from a relationship breakdown
- Seeing the death of a friend or loved one to suicide as a solution
- Being subjected to bullying and abuse
- Feeling overwhelmed by life events
Most people who are thinking of suicide give signs or signals which indicate they want help, however these are not always obvious because:
- Shame or fear of rejection
- Nobody hears a silent cry for help
- Not feeling worthy of help
- Not knowing how to talk about their feelings
- Not wanting to worry others about their problems
- Feeling alone or isolated making it difficult to reach out for help
- Cultural barriers – ‘we don’t talk about that kind of stuff’
- Not wanting to be seen as ‘attention seeking’
- Mental or physical illness or challenges