According to Kevin Caruso, author of "Suicide Warning Signs," about 75 percent of people who commit suicide show some warning signs. In addition, untreated depression is the leading cause of suicide. According to the National Institutes of Health, "clinical depression is a mood disorder where the feelings of sadness, loss, anger or frustration interfere with everyday life for an extended period of time." Patients who contemplate or commit suicide feel overwhelmed by these feelings and see death as their only escape. Reaching out to people who exhibit depression and suicide warning signs can prevent an unnecessary death.
Sadness
According to the National Institutes of Health, feelings of sadness, as well as feeling hopeless, helpless or trapped are signs of depression. Patients who feel constantly trapped or helpless may see death as their only alternative. If the sadness lasts longer than two weeks, it can be a sign of clinical depression and help should be sought.
Thoughts of Death
Thoughts of death, manifested though talking or writing about death and suicide, are a strong indicator of suicide, according to Kevin Caruso. The patient's thoughts about death may be subtle or they might be obvious. For example, the patient may keep a journal that contains his thoughts about death or self-harm. In addition, another warning sign of suicide is the patient focusing on dark subjects, like music that glorifies death. However, darker music or books should not be a sign alone for suicide; it should raise warning signs if it is a recent change in the patient's interests.
Mood Changes
Mood changes, especially dramatic personality changes, are signs of depression, according to the National Institutes of Health. Examples of mood changes that can indicate depression and suicide include agitation, lack of energy, irritability, self-hate and inappropriate guilt. In addition to personality and mood changes, patients may also have difficulty concentrating.
Changes in Sleeping and Eating
Another warning sign of depression and suicide is a change in either sleeping or eating patterns. Examples of sleeping changes include difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much. Patients may also experience a loss of appetite, which can result in a drastic loss of weight.
Loss of Interest
According to Kevin Caruso, a warning sign is the patient pulling away from people and losing interest in pleasurable activities. The patient may stop interacting with friends, seem isolated and no longer wish to participate in her favorite activities.
