Individuals considering suicide may give direct verbal cues and make
statements such as "I am planning to end my life." They may also give indirect
verbal cues about their suicidal thoughts and say things such as "I wish I did
not exist," or "This nightmare will only be over when I die." They typically
express feelings of feeling trapped, helpless, and hopeless. In this age of
technology and social media these statements may be made over social media sites
such as Facebook of Twitter. These verbal cues should ALWAYS be taken seriously.
Individuals considering suicide may display a sudden and/or drastic change in
behavior. Some specific warning signs include:
- Feelings or statements of hopelessness
- Rage, anger, seeking revenge
- Feeling trapped
- Increased alcohol or other drug use
- Withdrawal from others
- Anxiety, agitation, or sleep problems
- Dramatic mood changes
- Feelings or statements that reflect not having a reason to live or a sense
of purpose
- Threatening to hurt or kill themselves
- Looking for ways to kill themselves; seeking access to pills, weapons, or
other means
- Talking or writing about death, dying, or suicide (if it is out of the
ordinary)
If you notice these warning signs in a student/friend or are concerned that
an individual is considering suicide, it is very important that you ask
them directly if they are thinking about suicide and help them access
the resources available under the resources tab of this page.