SUICIDE WARNING SIGNS
Suicide warning signs are not always obvious. Some people make their intentions clear, while others keep suicidal thoughts and feelings secret.
- Talking or writing about suicide. Making statements such as, “I’m going to kill myself,” “I wish I was dead,” or “I am just so tired of life”.
- Buying guns or knives, or stockpiling pills
- Withdrawing from social contact
- Severe mood swings
- Thinking constantly about death, dying or violence
- Depression or a sense of hopelessness
- Increased use of alcohol or drugs
- Changing normal routine, including eating and sleeping patterns
- Doing risky or self-destructive things, such as using drugs or driving recklessly
- Giving away belongings or getting affairs in order
- Saying goodbye to people as if for the last time
- Personality changes, such as an outgoing person becoming withdrawn, or a well-behaved person suddenly acting rebellious
Additional Risk Factors
- Stress over school, relationships, expectations
- Previous suicide attempts — almost half of teens who commit suicide had made previous attempts
- Family history of abuse, suicide or violence
- A recent loss such as a death, break-up or parents’ divorce
- Being bullied or being a bully; Cyberbullying
- An estimated 75% to 90% of adolescent suicide deaths are associated with mental illness
- LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer) are 4 times more likely to make a suicide attempt than their peers
Learn more, including warning signs that are specific to teens and older adults at Know the Signs: www.suicideispreventable.org/find-the-words
GET HELP NOW
If you or someone you care about is in crisis:
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Spanish Speaking Hotline: 1-888-628-9454
www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org
Mendocino County Resources
- Suicide Prevention Hotline
1-855-587-6373
- Behavioral Health Recovery Services
Mental Health Plan Access Line: 1-800-555-5906
Patients’ Rights Advocate: 707-463-4614 or 1-800-555-5906
Toll Free Community Information / HELP Line: 1-800-575-4357
LEARN MORE
- Know the Signs: www.suicideispreventable.org/find-the-words
Adapted from Ventura County Behavioral Health / www.venturacountyresponds.org