According to the World Health Organization, about 1 million people die from suicide each year. People who struggle from mental health issues such as depression and bipolar disorder may have thoughts of suicide due to feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness. It's important to understand and recognize the signs of suicide so you can help friends and family members who may be contemplating taking their own lives. If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide or know someone who is, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
Talking About Death
Children and adolescents who are considering suicide may wonder what death is like and may ask friends and family members what they believe death will be like. They may say things like, "I wish I would die," or "I hate my life." Children and adolescents can be dramatic and say these things without really meaning them. However, you should take each death-related comment and question seriously. Adults might also talk about death if they're contemplating suicide.
People contemplating suicide may also express ideas of death in different ways. For example, they may write poems about death, write stories about death or draw pictures relating to death.
Feelings of Hopelessness
According to the HELPGUIDE website, feelings of hopelessness are a significant and dangerous sign of suicide. If someone doesn't believe there is any end to the feelings of despair and depression she is feeling, she may try to take her life. Someone who is feeling hopeless will talk as if she has no control over the future and doesn't see anything positive to look forward to.
Self-Hatred
Another sign that a person may be suicidal is if he makes self-hatred comments. Someone who doesn't like himself might be feeling guilty, ashamed or worthless. For instance, he might say, "I can never do anything right," or, "No one will ever love me. I'm an idiot."
Saying Goodbye and Withdrawal
Many times people who decide they are going to kill themselves say goodbye to close friends and family members in different ways. A teenager who is suicidal might give away all of his CDs to his best friend and tell his parents that he'll always love them. Sometimes people don't say goodbye before they commit suicide--they might leave a note instead.
Someone who is suicidal may withdraw from friends and family members. He might isolate himself, stop going to work and refuse to answer the phone. If the person says goodbye, he usually withdraws afterward.
Reckless Behavior
Someone contemplating suicide may be extremely reckless. She might take large doses of drugs, drink and drive and have unprotected sex. Some therapists see these actions as a passive form of suicide because they can lead to death.
