Warning Signs and Finding Support

Common Warning Signs that Someone May be Contemplating Suicide

(adapted from the Suicide Research Prevention Center)

  • Expressions of hopelessness about the future, hopeless about ability to change or improve the situation
  • Expressions of being a burden to friends, family, the college
  • Ostracization or difficulty connecting with others
  • Physical cuts or other signs of self-injury
  • Giving away possessions
  • Detaching from responsibilities and routine

Talking about

  • “If/when I’m gone….”
  • Feeling unbearable pain
  • Death or a recent fascination with death
  • Feeling hopeless, worthless, or trapped
  • Guilt, shame, or anger they can’t escape
  • Being a burden to others

Changes in behavior or mood

  • Recent suicide attempt
  • Increased alcohol or other drug use
  • Losing interest in personal appearance or hygiene
  • Withdrawing from family, friends, or community
  • Saying goodbye to friends and family
  • Giving away prized possessions
  • A recent episode of major depression, emotional distress, and/or anxiety
  • Changes in eating and/or sleeping patterns
  • Becoming violent or being a victim of violence
  • Expressing rage
  • Recklessness

Events associated with increased risk for suicide

  • Death of a family member or close friend
  • Sudden breakup in a relationship
  • Problems with family members, friends, or roommates
  • Experiencing or causing an accident
  • Doing something about which one is deeply ashamed
  • Diagnosis of a serious illness
  • Academic setbacks

Any and all warning signs that someone might be considering suicide should be taken seriously.

Asking someone whether they are thinking about suicide can be scary and uncomfortable. There is no evidence that asking someone if they are considering suicide increases the chance they will take their own life. In fact, asking someone directly about suicidal intent actually lowers anxiety, opens up communication and lowers the risk of a suicide attempt. (QPR, 2025)

How to Ask Someone if They Are Thinking About Suicide: (adapted from The JED Foundation)

  • Pick a private time and place to speak
  • Express your concern and desire to help
  • Ask directly if they have thought about suicide
  • Keep the door open if they don’t want to talk
  • Stay calm if they say yes
  • Listen and validate their struggle
  • Tell them you want to connect them to help
  • Don’t promise to keep what they tell you a secret
  • Get immediate help if they are unsafe
  • Take care of yourself

Resources