Warning Signs
Withdrawal from friends and family members
Trouble in romantic relationships
Difficulty getting along with others
Changes in the quality of schoolwork or lower grades
Rebellious behaviors
Unusual gift-giving or giving away own possessions
Appearing bored or distracted
Writing or drawing pictures about death
Running away from home
Changes in eating habits
Dramatic personality changes
Changes in appearance (for the worse)
Sleep disturbances
Drug or alcohol abuse
Talk of suicide, even in a joking way
Having a history of previous suicide attempts
Preventing Suicide
Complete suicide prevention training (QPR-Question, Persuade, Refer)
Display a mental health awareness ribbon in your home, car or work space to let people know you are available for support
Practice listening to understand, not to respond
Learn how to help by asking questions like:
"What is something that triggers discomfort for you?"
"What types of physical and emotional changes happen to you when you are triggered?"
"What is something we can do together to help you feel better?"
"What type of activity helps you feel calm or relaxed?"
Reducing Risks
Easy access to effective, culturally competent care
Support from medical and mental health care professionals
Coping, problem solving and conflict resolution skills
Restricted access to highly lethal means of suicide (e.g. firearms)
Strong connections to family members
Being connected to safe schools
Academic, artistic, athletic achievements
Nonviolent problem solving and conflict resolution
Family acceptance for their sexual orientation and/or gender identity
A feeling of safety, support and connectivity at school through peer groups like Gay-Straight Alliances
Positive connections with friends who share similar interests
Cultural and religious beliefs that discourage suicide
Positive role models and self esteem