| Talking about suicide |
Any talk about suicide, dying, or self-harm, such as "I wish I hadn't been born," "If I see you again..." and "I'd be better off dead." |
| Seeking out lethal means |
Seeking access to guns, pills, knives, or other objects that could be used in a suicide attempt. |
| Preoccupation with death |
Unusual focus on death, dying, or violence. Writing poems or stories about death. |
| No hope for the future |
Feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, and being trapped ("There's no way out"). Belief that things will never get better or change. |
| Self-loathing, self-hatred |
Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, shame, and self-hatred. Feeling like a burden ("Everyone would be better off without me"). |
| Getting affairs in order |
Making out a will. Giving away prized possessions. Making arrangements for family members. |
| Saying goodbye |
Unusual or unexpected visits or calls to family and friends. Saying goodbye to people as if they won't be seen again. |
| Withdrawing from others |
Withdrawing from friends and family. Increasing social isolation. Desire to be left alone. |
| Self-destructive behaviour |
Increased alcohol or drug use, reckless driving, unsafe sex. Taking unnecessary risks as if they have a "death wish." |
| Sudden sense of calm |
A sudden sense of calm and happiness after being extremely depressed can mean that the person has made a decision to die by suicide. |
