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Suicide Warning Signs and Risk Factors

SUICIDE WARNING SIGNS AND RISK FACTORS

The most powerful suicide prevention is being aware of the common symptoms and signs in friends, children, and loved ones and taking the necessary steps to get them the help they need. 

 

Warning Signs 

Four out of five people who attempt suicide give clear warning signs.

 

Warning Signs of suicidal ideation include, but are not limited, to the following:

  • Talking about suicide
  • Making statements about feeling hopeless, helpless, or worthless
  • A deepening depression
  • Preoccupation with death
  • Taking unnecessary risks or exhibiting self-destructive behavior
  • Out of character behavior
  • A loss of interest in the things one cares about
  • Visiting or calling people one cares about
  • Making arrangements; setting one's affairs in order
  • Giving prized possessions away

Along with these warning signs, there are certain Risk Factors that can elevate the possibility of suicidal ideation.

  • Perfectionist personalities
  • Gay and Lesbian youth
  • Learning disabled youth
  • Loners
  • Youth with low self- esteem
  • Depressed youth
  • Students in serious trouble
  • Abused, Molested or Neglected Youth
  • Genetic predisposition
  • Parental history of violence, substance abuse, or divorce
  • You can also review Purdue University's document Our Nation's Young and Suicide for more information.