Suicide Prevention – Warning Signs
Did you know that suicide is the third leading cause of death for 10-19 year-olds in the United States? A far greater number of youths attempt suicide each year. These are shocking statistics, but we also know that most youths who die by suicide suffer from a mental or substance use disorder, or both. It is important to look for signs of substance
abuse or depression and get professional help for your child.
–CDC and Prevention
- Talking about or writing about suicide or death
- Giving direct verbal ques, such as, “I wish I were dead” and “I’m going to end it all”
- Isolating himself/herself from family and friends
- Giving away prized possessions
- Expressing the belief that life is meaningless
- Exhibiting a sudden or unexplained improvement in mood after being depressed and withdrawn
- Neglecting his or her hygiene
- Dropping out of school or social, athletic, and/or community activities
- Frequent tearfulness and/or crying
- Decreased interest in activities or inability to enjoy previously favorite activities
- Hopelessness, helplessness
- Persistent boredom or low energy
- Social isolation
- Increase or decrease in sleeping patterns
- Increase or decrease in eating patterns
- Low self-esteem/guilt
- Difficulty with relationships
- Increased irritability, anger or hostility
- Drug and alcohol use
- Obsessive risk-taking
- Marked personality change
- Absences in school and/or drop in school performance
