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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Suicide Prevention and Care Program

Suicide Warning Signs and Risk Factors

People may not show any signs of the intent to kill themselves before they commit suicide. But there are behaviors that may indicate a person is at risk for killing themselves, and it is important to be aware of warning signs and risk factors. If you notice any warning signs for suicide, starting a conversation with the person may save their life.

Warning Signs

Learn to recognize the warning signs:

  • Hopelessness; feeling like there is no way out
  • Anxiety, agitation, sleeplessness, or mood swings
  • Feeling like there is no reason to live
  • Rage or anger
  • Engaging in risky activities
  • Increasing alcohol or drug abuse
  • Withdrawing from family and friends
  • Sleeping too little or too much
  • Withdrawing or isolating themselves
  • Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
  • Extreme mood swings

The presence of any of the following signs requires immediate attention:

  • Thinking about hurting or killing themselves
  • Reading or seeking infomtion on ways to die
  • Talking about death, dying, or suicide
  • Showing hopelessness or expressing that they have no reason to live
  • Talking about feeling trapped, being in unbearable pain, or a burden to others
  • Self-destructive or risk taking behavior, especially when it involves alcohol, drugs, or weapons

Risk Factors

  • Mental disorders, particularly mood disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and certain personality disorders
  • Alcohol and other substance use disorders
  • Hopelessness
  • Impulsive and/or aggressive tendencies
  • History of trauma or abuse
  • Major physical illnesses
  • Previous suicide attempt(s)
  • Stigma associated with asking for help
  • Lack of health care, especially mental health and substance abuse treatment
  • Cultural and religious beliefs, such as the belief that suicide is a noble resolution of a personal dilemma
  • Family history of suicide
  • Job or financial loss
  • Loss of relationship(s)
  • Easy access to lethal means
  • Local clusters of suicide
  • Lack of social support and sense of isolation
  • Exposure to others who have died by suicide (in real life or via the media and Internet)

Additional Risk Factors For American Indian/Alaska Native People

  • A history of interpersonal violence/abuse
  • Unwillingness to seek help because of stigma related to mental health, substance abuse disorders, or suicidal thoughts
  • Unemployment
  • Alcohol misuse/abuse
  • Economic instability and social disintegration
  • Perceived discrimination
  • Isolation on reservations, feeling cut off from other people
  • Local epidemics of suicide (called "Suicide Clusters")

Resources