Warning signs and symptoms

Early signs:

• Depression

• Statements or expressions of guilt feelings

• Tension or anxiety

• Nervousness

• Impulsiveness

Critical signs:

• Sudden change in behavior, especially calmness after a period of anxiety

• Giving away belongings, attempts to "get one's affairs in order"

• Direct or indirect threats to commit suicide

• Direct attempts to commit suicide

Risk factors for suicide include, but are not limited to:

• Previous suicide attempt(s)

• History of mental disorders, particularly depression

• History of alcohol and substance abuse

• Family history of suicide

• Family history of child maltreatment

• Feelings of hopelessness

• Impulsive or aggressive tendencies

• Barriers to accessing mental health treatment

• Loss (relational, social, work, or financial)

• Physical illness

• Easy access to lethal methods

• Unwillingness to seek help because of the stigma attached to mental health and
substance abuse disorders or suicidal thoughts

• Cultural and religious beliefs-for instance, the belief that suicide is a noble resolution of a personal dilemma

• Local epidemics of suicide

• Isolation, a feeling of being cut off from other people

Excerpt from: Suicide Prevention 101
Office of Minority Health