HealthInfo Canterbury
Suicide warning signs
If you're worried that someone may be thinking about suicide, there are some warning signs that you can look for. If you recognise these signs, take action.
Very serious signs
- Directly threatening suicide.
- Indirectly threatening suicide. For example, saying "I can't bear to be alive" or "I don't want to be alive any more".
- Gathering items that can be used for suicide – stockpiling medication, buying a gun or rope.
- Spending a lot of time talking about, reading, drawing, writing or listening to music about death and suicide.
Other signs to watch out for
- Depression.
- Isolation – not seeing friends or joining in family activities.
- Feelings of shame, rage, hopelessness or guilt ("my family shouldn't have to put up with me like this").
- Increased drug or alcohol use.
- Previous suicide attempts.
- Making a will or paying off debts.
- Giving precious items away to other people.
- Unexpected behaviours – leaving a job, changing personality, sleep patterns or appearance.
HealthInfo recommends the following pages
- Mental Health Foundation – Suicide prevention
Information about how you can help someone who is suicidal, and where to get help.
- Skylight Trust – Signs to look out for
Signs that indicate someone might need support.
On the next page: What to do if you think someone may be suicidal
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Endorsed by chief of Psychiatry, Canterbury DHB. Last reviewed October 2020.
SourcesReview key: HISUH-48714
