Talking about suicide
Most cases of potential suicide have warning signs. Attempting to kill oneself or harming oneself, talking about or planning suicide, writing a suicide note, talking or thinking frequently about death, exhibiting a death wish by expressing it verbally or by taking potentially deadly risks, are all indicators of a suicide crisis. More subtle clues include preparing for death for no apparent reason (such as putting affairs in order, changing a will, etc.), writing goodbye letters, and visiting or calling family members or friends to say farewell.
The person may also start giving away previously valued items (because he 'no longer needs them'). In other cases, the person who seemed depressed and suicidal may become normal again; those people need to be watched because the return to normalcy could be because they have come to terms with whatever act is next.
Many people who attempt suicide talk about it before making the attempt. Sometimes, simply talking to a sympathetic, nonjudgmental listener is enough to prevent the person from attempting suicide. For this reason suicide prevention centers have telephone 'hotline' services. Again, do not ignore a suicide threat or attempted suicide.
As with any other type of emergency, it is best to immediately call the local emergency number (such as 911). Do not leave the person alone even after phone contact with an appropriate professional has been made.
Early signs:
- Depression
- Statements or expressions of guilt feelings
- Tension or anxiety
- Nervousness
- Impulsiveness
Critical signs:
- Sudden change in behavior, especially calmness after a period of anxiety
- Giving away belongings, attempts to get one's affairs in order
- Direct or indirect threats to commit suicide
- Direct attempts to commit suicide
- Loss of interest in things or activities that are usually found enjoyable
- Cutting back social interaction, self-care, and grooming.
- Breaking medical regimens (e.g., going off diets, prescriptions)
- Experiencing or expecting a significant personal loss (e.g., spouse)
- Feeling hopeless and/or worthless ('Who needs me?').
- Putting affairs in order, giving things away, or making changes in wills.
- Stock-piling medication or obtaining other lethal means
