Stay alert for warning signs of suicide

Learn and stay alert for common warning signs of suicide or suicidal thoughts:

• Talking about suicide — for example, making statements such as "I'm going to kill myself," "I wish I were dead" or "I wish I hadn't been born."
• Getting the means to attempt suicide, such as buying a gun or stockpiling pills.
• Withdrawing from social contact and wanting to be left alone.
• Having mood swings, such as being emotionally high one day and deeply discouraged and irritable the next.
• Being lost in thought about death, dying or violence.
• Feeling trapped or hopeless about a situation.
• Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.
• Changing the normal routine, including eating or sleeping patterns.
• Doing risky or self-destructive things, such as using drugs or driving recklessly.
• Giving away belongings or getting affairs in order when there's no reason to do this.
• Saying goodbye to people as if they won't be seen again.
• Having personality changes or being severely anxious or upset, particularly with some of the warning signs above.