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Resources for Talking About Suicide

Warning Signs of Suicide

Learning the warning signs of suicide is a huge part of preventing a crisis.
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Learning the warning signs of suicide is a huge part of preventing a crisis. Although emotional ups and downs are normal, there are certain signs that someone is suicidal. Knowing the major symptoms of suicidal people can help you connect with and support someone you care about– even if that person is yourself.

Have you or someone you know felt…?

  • Unimportant
  • Trapped
  • Hopeless
  • Overwhelmed
  • Unmotivated
  • Alone
  • Irritable
  • Impulsive
  • Suicidal

Do you or someone you know…?

  • Not care about their future: “It won’t matter soon anyway.”
  • Put themselves down – and think they deserve it: “I don’t deserve to live. I suck.”
  • Express hopelessness: “Things will never get better for me.”
  • Say goodbye to important people: “You’re the best friend I’ve ever had. I’ll miss you.”
  • Have a specific plan for suicide: “I’ve thought about how I’d do it.”
  • Talk about feeling suicidal: “LIfe is so hard. Lately I’ve felt like ending it all.”

Have you or someone you know been…?

  • Using drugs or alcohol more than usual
  • Acting differently than usual
  • Giving away their most valuable possessions
  • Losing interest in their favorite things to do
  • Admiring people who have died by suicide
  • Planning for death by writing a will or letter
  • Eating or sleeping more or less than usual
  • Feeling more sick, tired or achy than usual

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, then you are not alone. We are here for you 24/7 on the Trevor Lifeline at 1-866-488-7386. That means all day and night, every weekend, each holiday, and beyond.

Both adults and youth show suicide warning signs. Looking closer at youth suicide risk, a 2024 survey for the Trevor Project cites that “39% of LGBTQ+ young people seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year”.

If you recognize these signs in someone you know, encourage them to ask for help. If they need support, empower them to call the Trevor Lifeline at 1-866-488-7386 to talk with a trained volunteer counselor. Trevor is here 24/7 – that means all day and night, every weekend, and every holiday.

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Resources for Talking About Suicide