Warning Signs of Suicidal Thoughts
Studies show that there are often warning signs before someone tries to commit suicide. These signs can show up in what the person says or how they act. If someone makes strange statements or behaves unusually, it's important to look into what's happening with them. Sometimes, the person may share that they are dealing with something manageable, but other times, they could be in serious trouble. Being alert to these signs can make a big difference and mean a lot to someone who often longs for a caring relationship and wants to be noticed in their distress. This page will discuss several types of warning signs.
Statements that raise concerns
The statements below show how someone is feeling. These words are concerning because they indicate mental pain, a feeling of being a burden, unrealistic hopes, and thoughts of suicide.
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“I’m tired of life.”
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“I can’t keep living like this.”
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“My family would be better off without me.”
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“No one would care if I died.”
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“I won’t be around much longer.”
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“You won’t have to worry about me anymore.”
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“I will soon be gone.”
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“This life isn’t worth living.”
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“I’ve decided to take my own life.”
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“I wish I were dead.”
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“I’m going to take my own life.”
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“I plan to end it all.”
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“If something (whatever) doesn’t happen, I will take my own life.”
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“Nothing really matters anyway.”
Emotional and behavioral changes that should raise concerns
If the person in front of you feels one or more of the following emotions strongly and for a long time, at least two weeks in a row, they might be depressed, and depression is a major risk factor for suicide:
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Overwhelming sadness -
Anger -
Despair -
Anxiety
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Confusion -
Frustration
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Fear
Loneliness that causes mental pain may lead to death
People who do not connect with their surroundings and feel alone are at higher risk. Loneliness creates a sense that there is no one to turn to for help, leading to a lack of social support and a feeling of not belonging. The absence of belonging is a major risk factor: feeling connected to others is essential for mental health, and without someone close by, the chances of missing warning signs increase. Therefore, the stronger a person's sense of belonging to a community or society, the lower the risk of suicide.
Warning thoughts
Here are examples of thoughts that may signal a warning sign. It’s important to note that these can manifest in many different ways.
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Thoughts about death.
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Feelings of hopelessness, especially a sense of being lost and trapped.
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Beliefs that no one cares about the person.
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Feelings of guilt, such as believing they are a burden to their family, not fulfilling their roles, or feeling morally flawed ("I am a bad person").
Warning sign behaviors
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Talk about death.
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Withdrawing, isolating, or cutting off connections.
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Changes in daily routines, like missing school or work, or dysfunction at home with children.
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Giving away gifts or personal belongings.
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Writing letters.
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Making personal arrangements (like insurance or legal matters).
Even one sign is a warning sign
Sometimes just one warning sign is enough to warrant further investigation, but the more signs there are, the greater the risk. In general, more direct warning signs about intent are more serious. Speaking openly about death and suicide is more concerning than emotional changes that might suggest depression but not necessarily suicide.
Important to know
Important to know
Functional changes aren't always a serious warning sign; however, transferring property and writing farewell or summary letters are more concerning indicators. Conversely, some individuals who show no serious warning signs may still be at very high risk, and the reverse can also be true.
How to tell if our concern is exaggerated
You might think your worry is over the top, and that what you believe you recognize isn't dangerous, just a bad mood. This feeling is normal, and sometimes it stops people from checking or responding because they're afraid they might misinterpret the warning signs. Honestly, it's hard to know if we're worrying for no reason. Keep in mind that the cost of a false alarm is very low, while the cost of missing a real threat is huge. It's better to follow the rule: “If there’s any doubt, there’s no doubt” and check to increase the chances of saving a life.
Remember: Being aware of warning signs and the feelings of those around you can save lives. Actions like making your loved ones feel noticed, showing that you care, and genuinely wanting to help can be the first step in getting help, and they also assist in the healing process.
Support and assistance
The National Suicide Prevention Program website offers detailed information about resources and support for people in suicidal distress.
Written in collaboration with the National Suicide Prevention Program.
Assisted by: Dr. Shira Barzilai, clinical psychologist and senior lecturer in the Community Mental Health Faculty at the University of Haifa, and Nadav Horovitz, clinical psychologist.