Recognizing Suicide warning signs:

Recognizing Suicide warning signs:

Resources

IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW IS IN CRISES, PLEASE CALL 988 OR 911, OR GO TO THE NEAREST EMERGENCY ROOM OR HOSPITAL.

Recognizing the warning signs of suicide is a crucial step in providing help to someone who may be at risk.

Here are some common signs to watch for:

1. Verbal Expressions

  • Talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself.
  • Expressing feelings of hopelessness or having no reason to live.
  • Saying they feel like a burden to others.
  • Mentioning unbearable pain or feeling trapped.

2. Behavioral Changes

  • Withdrawing from friends, family, or social activities.
  • Giving away possessions or making arrangements for their belongings.
  • Increased use of drugs or alcohol.
  • Engaging in reckless or self-destructive behaviors, such as unsafe driving or risky activities.
  • Sudden changes in mood — either extreme sadness or calmness after a period of distress.
  • Losing interest in activities they once enjoyed.

3. Emotional and Physical Signs

  • Persistent sadness or depression.
  • Intense anxiety or agitation.
  • Irritability or rage.
  • Changes in sleep patterns — sleeping too much or too little.
  • Drastic changes in appetite or weight.

4. Indirect or Subtle Signs

  • Writing about death or posting troubling messages on social media.
  • Saying goodbye to loved ones in an unusual or significant way.
  • Expressing feelings of being trapped or having no options.
  • Increased focus on death, dying, or violence.

Immediate Danger Signs

If someone exhibits the following signs, they may be in immediate danger, and you should seek help immediately:

  • Talking about a specific plan or means to carry out suicide.
  • Acquiring tools or methods (e.g., pills, weapons) for self-harm.
  • Sudden calmness after severe depression, which could indicate a decision to act.

How to Help

  1. Listen without judgment: Let them express their feelings openly.
  2. Show empathy: Acknowledge their pain and validate their feelings.
  3. Ask directly: If you’re concerned, ask them directly if they’re thinking about suicide. This won’t plant the idea but can open the door for honest discussion.
  4. Encourage professional help: Guide them toward contacting a counselor, therapist, or suicide hotline.
  5. Ensure safety: If they are in immediate danger, don’t leave them alone. Call emergency services or a crisis hotline for assistance.

Resources

If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t hesitate to seek help. Early intervention can save lives.

IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW IS IN CRISES, PLEASE CALL 988 OR 911, OR GO TO THE NEAREST EMERGENCY ROOM OR HOSPITAL.

Shervan K Shahhian

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Published by Shervan K Shahhian, LIBERTY PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION, The Most Comprehensive Online Library Regarding Mental Health, Psychology and Parapsychology in the World.

Doctored Degree in Clinical Psychology (PSYD) (ABD) All But Dissertation, a Masters (M.A.) in Clinical Psychology, a Bachelor's Degree (B.A.) in Psychology, a Associate Degree (AA) in Liberal Arts with an emphases in Psychology, Certification in Anger Management, Certification in MRT-Moral Reconation Therapy®, Certification in Clinical Hypnotherapy, and Certification in Advanced Hypnotherapy.

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