Most people who die by suicide exhibit warning signs in the days or weeks preceding their death. These signs may be displayed through the individual’s words, actions, or situation. The more warning signs observed, the greater the risk.
Verbal Clues
Talking about… killing themselves
Having no reason to live
Being a burden to others
Feeling desperate or trapped
Feeling hopeless
Unbearable pain
Seeking revenge
“Ending it all”
Saying goodbye to family/friends
Behavioral Clues
Any previous suicide attempt(s)
Increased alcohol or drug use
Acquiring a gun or stockpiling pills
Withdrawing from activities
Giving away prized possessions
Sleeping too much or too little
Acting recklessly
Unexplained anger, aggression, irritability
Engaging in self-destructive behavior
Change in mood (e.g. anxious/agitated)
Sudden mood swings
Change in appearance or hygiene
Situational Clues
Being fired or expelled from school
A recent unwanted move
Loss of any major relationship
Death of a friend or loved one
Diagnosis of a serious/terminal illness
Anticipated loss of financial security
Fear of becoming a burden
Loss of freedom/fear of punishment
Loss of a cherished counselor/teacher
Awareness of the 3 levels and signs of stress and distress for students can also be helpful in identifying students at risk and in providing early intervention.
Stress
Student sleeping in class
Irregular class attendance
Changes in social or academic behavior
Distress
Absence from classes
Significant decline in academic performance
Social isolation, withdrawal
Crisis
Student engages in active suicidal behavior
Student expresses direct thoughts, intentions of suicide
Student expresses direct thoughts, intentions of harming others
Student exhibits delusional behavior and significant misperception of reality
