DISCLAIMER: This blog article contains discussion of suicide. If you or someone you know might be struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-8255, text at 741741, or chat online at 988lifeline.org.
In 2022, more than 49,000 people in the United States died by suicide. According to the CDC, this equates to about 1 death every 11 minutes! On top of that, 13.2 million people seriously considered suicide, 3.8 million planned it, and 1.6 million attempted suicide. These statistics are unsettling to say the least. Sadly, while we are becoming more comfortable with discussing mental health in general, many of us remain uncomfortable with addressing the topic of suicide, leaving it shrouded in silence and stigma. This is what makes the month of September so important. September is Suicide Prevention Month. By openly addressing the issue of suicide and providing information about risk factors and prevention resources, we can break down the barriers surrounding suicide and support those who may be struggling. In this article, we will review 11 warning signs.
Significant Highs and Lows
No one is perfectly happy all of the time. We all have emotional highs and lows. That is life. However, people experiencing suicidal thoughts may go through sudden or extreme mood swings. One moment they may seem fine, the next moment they may seem deeply depressed or even agitated. This can be a sign of underlying emotional distress and should be taken seriously. If you or someone you know is experiencing these mood swings, it's important to reach out for help.
Expression of Anger/Wanting Revenge
Who hasn't been angry? Anyone may have been guilty of momentarily wanting the satisfaction of someone getting their "just desserts" when they have done something wrong towards you. Momentarily. However, continual fixation on anger or discussing revenge may be a red flag for underlying emotional distress. Sometimes when people feel overwhelmed by negative emotions, they may turn to anger as a means of coping. Underneath their anger or revenge expressions, may be a sign of underlying hopelessness, frustration, or even suicidal ideation. As I often tell my clients, anger is often a mask for deeper pain. If you or someone you know is exhibiting signs of anger or discussing revenge, it's crucial to reach out to a mental health professional and a trusted support system. Seeking help is a valuable step towards healing. Do not go it alone.
Becoming Distant or Socially Isolated
It is during alone time that many find themselves able to recharge their batteries or get clarity on their life circumstances. However, there are some instances where becoming distant or socially isolated can be a red flag for emotional distress . Withdrawing from friends, family, or social activities could be a sign that someone is feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or even hopeless. These changes in behavior can be a subtle indication of underlying mental health issues, including suicidal ideation. It's important to pay attention to these signs and reach out to the individual with compassion and concern.
Sleeping Pattern Changes Drastically
I always encourage my clients to rule out medical. Meaning if they are noticing any change with their sleeping habits, they need to make an appointment with their primary care physician. If there is no physical cause to the sleep disturbance, mental health may be the culprit. Changes in sleep patterns can be a symptom of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or even substance abuse. Just because a person has any of these mental health diagnoses doesn't necessarily mean that they are suicidal. However, it is definitely a warning sign to make note of. If you or someone you know is experiencing significant changes in sleep along with other concerning behaviors, it's essential to seek professional help.
Anxiety, Agitation, or Increased Risky Behaviors
If someone becomes increasingly anxious, restless, or starts taking dangerous risks, they may be signaling underlying emotional pain or a lack of concern for their safety. These changes in behavior can be a subtle indication of mental health issues, including suicidal ideation. When individuals are struggling with intense negative emotions, they may engage in risky behaviors as a way to cope or numb the pain. These behaviors may look different in different people, but some common risky behaviors include: reckless driving, engaging in risky sexual behavior, engaging in dangerous activities such as extreme sports or fighting, or substance abuse.
Increased Reliance on Alcohol or Drugs
If our music tells a story, it is one that recreational use of drugs and alcohol are more commonplace and acceptable. They don't even use coded language anymore. Thought it may have started out as a little harmless fun for some, escaping through substance use is a common coping mechanism for those struggling with intense emotions. The thing those songs leave out in their catchy lyrics and beat is that using substance as a means to escape reality can also exacerbate underlying issues. Substance abuse can create a vicious cycle, leading to feelings of guilt, shame, and further emotional turmoil. If you or someone you know is exhibiting signs of increased substance use, it's important to reach out for help.
Talking about Being a Burden
This is a huge flaming red flag. d be better off without me," suggest deep feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and should be taken seriously. These statements can be a sign of underlying suicidal ideation, as individuals may believe that their presence is causing pain or suffering to others. It's important to remember that these feelings are often distorted and do not reflect reality. People experiencing suicidal thoughts may struggle with negative self-talk and distorted beliefs. They may believe that they are worthless, unloved, or a burden to others. These thoughts can be overwhelming and contribute to feelings of hopelessness and despair. It's important to challenge these negative beliefs and remind individuals that they are worthy and loved. If you or someone you know is experiencing these distorted thoughts, it's crucial to reach out for help and offer support.
Expressing Feeling Trapped
Expressing feelings of being trapped or experiencing overwhelming emotional pain can be a red flag for suicidal ideation. When someone mentions feeling stuck or trapped in their situation, it can reflect a state of emotional paralysis where suicide may feel like the only way out. These feelings can stem from various sources—relationship problems, financial difficulties, work stress, or personal trauma—but regardless of the cause these feelings can be overwhelming and contribute to a sense of hopelessness and despair. It's important to recognize that these emotions are often temporary, and seeking help can be a powerful step towards overcoming them. If you or someone you know is expressing these sentiments, it's crucial to reach out for support and offer compassion. It’s crucial to understand that these emotions, though intense, are often temporary and can be alleviated with the right support and intervention. People experiencing this type of pain may not believe that relief is possible in the moment, which only deepens the sense of hopelessness and despair. The brain, when overwhelmed by stress or trauma, can start to narrow its perspective, making it hard to see alternatives or solutions. This is where reaching out for help becomes a lifeline. Do not wait; seek help immediately.
Feeling Hopeless or Without Purpose
A profound sense of hopelessness is one of the most common warning signs linked to suicidal ideation. When someone expresses feelings like, "What's the point?" or "I have nothing to live for," these statements often reveal deep emotional pain and despair. In these moments, the individual may feel disconnected from life’s meaning or purpose, and this loss of hope can become an overwhelming force that clouds their ability to see a brighter future. Their hopelessness can stem from specific events such as a personal failure, loss of a loved one, financial strain, or chronic illness. Hopelessness is powerful because it distorts a person’s perception of their reality. Even if they are surrounded by support or have past experiences of resilience, they may still believe that nothing will change for the better. This emotional weight can make life feel unbearable, and suicide may seem like the only way to escape the ongoing pain. If you or someone you know is expressing these sentiments, it's crucial to reach out for support and offer compassion.
Openly Expressing a Desire to End One's Life
When someone openly expresses a desire to end their life, it is a serious and urgent call for help. Statements like, "I wish I were dead," "I just can’t go on," or "I want to end it all" may seem casual or fleeting, but they are often direct reflections of suicidal ideation. These declarations, whether said in passing or in a moment of distress, are not to be dismissed. Even if they’re voiced with a tone of resignation or frustration, they signal deep emotional pain and a potential crisis that needs immediate attention. This is not attention seeking. It is a huge signal that they are overwhelmed and unable to cope with their circumstances. It's critical to take any mention of suicide seriously, regardless of how frequent or casual it may seem. This may be their way of asking for help without directly saying, "I need help."
Seeking Out the Means to Harm Oneself
When someone begins actively seeking out ways to harm themselves, it is one of the clearest and most urgent red flags for suicidal ideation. Whether it's researching methods online, acquiring dangerous tools or substances, or making specific plans, these actions signal that the individual is not just thinking about suicide but may be preparing to act on those thoughts. This behavior represents a significant escalation in risk and requires immediate intervention. If you observe someone engaging in these behaviors—such as searching the internet for how-to guides on suicide, stockpiling pills, or purchasing weapons or other means—it is vital to act immediately. Time is of the essence in these situations. Often, people who are contemplating suicide but haven’t yet acted on their thoughts are still open to alternatives, even if they feel conflicted or ambivalent. However, when they take steps toward planning or acquiring the means to harm themselves, it suggests that they’ve moved beyond passive thoughts of suicide and are considering a real course of action. You can offer compassionate support, but it’s equally important to ensure that professional help is involved right away.
What to Do if You Notice These Signs
If you recognize any of these warning signs in someone you know—or even in yourself—take action immediately. It can be difficult to reach out for help, but you don’t have to go through it alone. There are trained professionals who are ready to listen, support, and help you find a path forward. One of the best resources available is the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. This free, confidential service is available 24/7, offering a listening ear and critical support in moments of crisis. Just dial 988. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, don’t hesitate to call the lifeline. You could be the bridge between someone’s darkest moment and their next step toward healing. Reaching out can make all the difference. You’re not alone, and help is just a call away. And as always, please remember. Wherever you are on this wellness journey, do not worry about getting it perfect; just get it going. Take care of yourselves and take care of each other. Until next time. Happy reading.
"The bravest thing I ever did was continuing my life when I wanted to die." ~ Juliette Lewis
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