Suicidal Prevention: Warning Signs

It is estimated that three fourth of people who either try to or who actually commit suicide show clear warning sign of their intent. Is it possible to detect that someone is thinking of taking off his or her life? What are the major warning signs?

According to Geo Stone in “Suicide and Attempted Suicide”, the most common warning signs are as follows:

“1/ A previous suicide attempt. Between 20 – 80 percent of suicides (studies vary wildly) have made one or more prior attempts. Whatever the actual number, this is the single most significant flag.

2/ A major change in behavior or personality. A normally cheerful person may become quiet and withdrawn, and stop formerly- pleasurable activities. Insomnia, or more often an excess of sleep, may be seen. Giving away prized possessions is sometimes a sign that a decision for suicide has been made. However, in all of these and other changes, alternative reasons for the behavior are entirely possible.

3/ Reckless behavior. “I don’t care” or “leave it to chance” actions are close to out-and-out suicidal behavior. An example of this is “Russian roulette”.

4/ Severe depression. Some of the components of depression are hopelessness, inability to concentrate, sleep disturbances, feelings of worthlessness, loneliness, and sadness. Such a person might say things like, “You would be better off without me,” or “Everything I touch turns into ashes.” However, some people are so depressed that they don’t have the energy to kill themselves. These folks are actually at higher risk when there just starting to feel a little better.

5/ Talking, or dropping clues, about committing suicide. This is usually an indirect, but unmistakable, plea for help, and shouldn’t be ignored. Adolescents, in particular, generally place high value on independence, privacy, and self-reliance. If they’re asking for help, they are probably in serious pain.”

More information on Suicide Facts, Risk Factors, Intervention In Suicide and others can be found in “Suicide and Attempted Suicide” by Geo Stone