Suicide warning signs
People who take their own life can sometimes display warning signs beforehand.
Some might include:
- an overwhelming sense of shame or guilt
- a dramatic change in personality or appearance, or irrational or bizarre behaviour
- changed eating or sleeping habits
- expressions of hopelessness or helplessness
- increasing substance use
- a drop in school or work performance
- a lack of interest in things previously important, and the future
- writing, speaking or joking about suicide, death or dying or intention
- giving away possessions and putting affairs in order
- withdrawing from friends, family or society
Risk factors for suicide
Researchers believe that some people who end their own lives do not actually want to end their lives but feel there is no other option to relieve them of their pain.
Those who do take their own life may feel overwhelmed, seeking release from their distress.
It is important to understand that suicide is the result of many factors in a person’s life and not one particular event or discussion.
Suicide is complex: there is no single explanation.
Contributing factors to being at risk of suicide may include:
- Mental health conditions
- Chronic pain or physical disability
- Feelings of isolation or helplessness
- Grief and loss
- Substance use
- Negative life events (abuse, significant loss, financial crisis)
- Previous suicide attempt or exposure to suicide behaviour in others
What to do if someone says they are suicidal
Don’t be afraid to ask directly ‘Are you thinking of ending your own life’.
Most often the individual is relieved when asked and can act as an opportunity for them to be honest and open about how they are really feeling.
- Stay calm. The person you are speaking to is already in distress so the best thing you can do is to show them that you can calmly speak with them and support them. Discuss your concerns with them openly and non-judgmentally. A supportive conversation gives them the opportunity to talk about their distress.
- Link them in with the right supports. You do not have to have all the answers. Encourage or help the person to access professional help, such as their mental health professional or a support helpline, such as:
- Mind’s support line on 0300 102 1234
- Samaritans 24 hours a day, 365 days a year , by calling 116 123 (free from any phone)
- National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK on 0800 689 5652
- NHS 111 – urgent mental health helpline You can contact NHS 111 any time to access support for your health. To get urgent mental health support, call 111 and select option 2.
Visit the NHS 111 England and NHS 111 Wales websites to learn more, including other ways to get support.
If you notice any warning signs or symptoms, whether in yourself or someone you care for, seek professional help straight away!
Reach out to us – we are just a phone call away.
If a person is at serious risk of suicide, stay with them if possible and contact the psychiatric emergency team at your local hospital or call 999.
Keep these numbers readily available in case you need urgent help.
* Quarterly suicide death registrations in England – Office for National Statistics