When Should I Suspect That Someone is Considering Suicide?

Persons who are considering suicide generally display symptoms of depression. These signs may include but not be limited to the following:

• Sudden radical changes in mood, particularly depression
• Increasingly self deprecating remarks
• Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness
• Increased use of alcohol or drugs
• Giving away of cherished items
• Making goodbyes
• Serious withdrawal from activities and significant persons
• Persistent discussions of death
• Self destructive or high risk behavior
• Previous attempts of suicide
• Identification with someone who has committed suicide
• Statements of a desire to explore or complete suicide