Suicide Awareness

How to Spot the Warning Signs of Suicide

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It’s estimated that suicide is the 10th leading cause of death and kills more people than homicide every year. In the United States alone, as of 2020, it’s estimated that 45,000+ people die by suicide each year. Suicide doesn’t discriminate – it affects people of all ages, genders, races, and religions.

There are many different types of mental illness, and each one can impact a person’s thoughts, emotions, and behavior in different ways. However, all forms of mental illness can increase the risk of thoughts of suicide and behaviors.

While it’s not always possible to know if someone is considering suicide, there are warning signs and risk factors that you can look out for.

Some Warning Signs to Watch Out for


1) Talking about wanting to die or hurt oneself

This may be expressed as a desire to kill oneself, making plans to do so, or talking about death in general. Talking about being a burden to others, feeling trapped, having no reason to live, or feeling like there’s no way out, or having suicidal ideations may be additional risk factors for someone who might attempt suicide.

When someone is talking about wanting to kill or hurt themselves, they are in so much pain that they have a hard time seeing any other route. Escaping from life feels like the only option because they are in so much pain it feels unbearable.

Some phrases that are commonly used and signify someone is in pain and need help include:

  • “I just don’t see a way out of this.”
  • “I wish I wasn’t here.”
  • “You’d be better off without me”
  • “Life isn’t worth it.”
  • “You’d be sorry if I didn’t exist.”

Although at the time, the comment may seem casual or not something to read into, but it is important to not take these comments lightly and help them get the assistance they need to begin feeling better.

2) Expressing feelings of hopelessness

This may manifest as a belief that things will never get better, that there’s no point in trying, or that there’s no way out of the current situation.

These signs can be subtle but are very dangerous. Studies have shown that hopelessness is a strong warning sign of possible suicide. This can show itself in conversation and expressions of feeling hopeless and like there is no way out of their current situation of unbearable pain. The future appears bleak and there is nothing to look forward to. Recognizing loss of hope is crucial in helping your friend and loved ones out of suicidal ideation and keeping them from hurting themselves.

3) Talking about being a burden to others

If someone expresses that they feel like they’re a burden to others or that they’re not worth saving, it’s a major red flag. Their perception has become that they are flawed and a liability to others. It’s important to assure your loved ones of the importance of their life and the positive aspects of them that inspire you.

4) Increasing alcohol or drug use

Abusing substances is often a way for people to self-medicate and numb their feelings. If you see this behavior increasing, it’s important to not ignore. When your loved one begins using drugs or alcohol to cope with their emotions and help deal with their pain, this can be very indicative that something is wrong.

5) Withdrawing from friends and activities

If someone suddenly starts withdrawing from social activities and isolates themselves, it may be a sign that they’re considering suicide. Becoming detached from life emotionally and physically is a sign that something is not okay and important to note as a sign of depression. Loosing interest in activities they once enjoyed and not participating in the world around them is a big indicator. It’s important to check on your loved ones when you notice their frequent absence, it may be a subtle change but could mean they are struggling.

6) Changes in mood

A person who is considering suicide may exhibit changes in mood, such as becoming more depressed, anxious, irritable, or angry.

7) Abnormal sleep patterns

Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much can both be early warning signs of suicide and depression. They may sleep way more, struggling to get out of their bed or barely sleep at all. Changes in sleep habits are a sign something is wrong and a reason to worry.

8) Giving away prized possessions

If someone starts giving away their things, it may be a sign that they don’t plan on being around much longer.

9)  Making a will or final arrangements

If someone talks about making a will or final arrangements, it may be a sign that they’re considering suicide.

If you’re worried about someone, don’t hesitate to reach out and talk to them. You could save a life.

Alternative Depression Treatments for Suicidal Ideation

Alternatives for those suffering from depression or contemplating suicide may include talk therapy, prescription management, and TMS treatment from Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry’s range of comprehensive psychiatric services.

Talk Therapy

One alternative to medication is talk therapy. During talk therapy, a person talks to a therapist about their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. The therapist can help the person understand their thoughts and feelings and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

Prescription Management

For those who are on medication for depression, it’s important to work with a psychiatrist to make sure that the medication is working. If the medication isn’t working, the psychiatrist may adjust the dosage or switch the person to a different medication.

TMS Therapy

TMS treatment from Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry is a non-invasive alternative for treating depression. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) uses magnetic pulses to stimulate the brain and can be an effective treatment for those who haven’t responded to other treatments.

Treatment sessions are typically short, lasting about 30-40 minutes. Most people require 5-6 weeks of treatment to see results. Multiple days a week showing up on time for treatment is required.

Help Save a Life from Suicide

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help. Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry can provide comprehensive psychiatric care that may save a life. Talk therapy, medication management, and TMS treatment are all effective methods of suicide prevention. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help – it could be the most important call you ever make.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

Hours: Available 24 hours.
800-273-8255

Languages: English, Spanish.