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. The strongest and most disturbing signs are verbal. “ I can’t go on. Nothing matters anymore. I’m thinking of ending it all.” Such remarks should be taken seriously.

Other common warning signs include:

  • Becoming depressed and withdrawn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 of life change
  • Situations that can cause risk of suicide:

  • Family history of suicide or violence
  • Sexual or physical abuse
  • Death of a close friend or family member
  • Divorce, separation, or ending a relationship
  • Failing academic performance
  • Job loss, problems at work, or school
  • Impending legal action
  • Recent incarceration or trouble with the law
  • Behaviors:

  • Crying
  • Fighting
  • Breaking the law
  • Impulsiveness
  • Self-mutiliation
  • Writing about death and suicide
  • Previous suicidal behavior
  • Extremes of behavior
  • Changes in behavior
  • Physical Changes:

  • Lack of energy
  • Disturbed sleeping patterns either too much or not enough
  • Loss or increase in 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 the narrow focus
  • Daydreaming
  • Anxiety and stress
  • Helplessness
  • Loss of self-worth
  • Warning Signs of Suicide


    (This fact sheet is courtesy of Befrienders Worldwide website www.befrienders.org.)