Common Indications of Increased Risk for Suicide

  • A previous history of suicide attempts, gestures, threats, or fantasies
  • A history of depression with suicidal thoughts, plan, or intent
  • A history of psychosis or impulsivity or severe agitation
  • A history of self-destructive behavior or violence
  • A history of explosiveness and/or rage
  • A history of alcohol and/or substance abuse
    This is especially true for people who take medications that depress the central nervous system. Many "suicides" are the result of loss of judgment and memory due to alcohol abuse e.g., they have "forgotten" that they have already taken their sleeping pills.
  • Feelings of despair and hopelessness
  • Talk of life is not worth living or why am I here
  • Feelings of guilt and worthlessness
  • Letters or messages saying good bye to loved ones and friends
  • Letters or messages describing how valued possessions are to be distributed or the actual giving away of same
  • A family history of suicide
  • An inability to forgive or love yourself
  • A refusal to ask for help
  • Lack of a social support system
  • Lack of a belief in a higher power
  • Having access to a gun or any other lethal weapon or means
  • The loss of the sense of wonder
  • A refusal to take or a history of noncompliance with antidepressants or other psychotropic medications

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

1-800-273-TALK (8255)