While some suicides occur without any outward warning, most people who are suicidal do give some sign that they are thinking about suicide. By knowing these signs - and what to do if you if you see them in yourself or another person - you can help prevent a suicide.

What are the signs?

• Thinking about suicide
• Talking or writing about death, dying, or suicide
• Looking for the ways to kill oneself (getting the gun, pills, etc)
• Feeling hopeless
• Rage or uncontrolled anger
• Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities
• Feeling trapped - like there’s no way out
• Increasing alcohol or drug use
• Withdrawing from friends, family and society
• Giving away possessions
• Feeling anxious, agitated
• Can’t sleep or sleeping all the time
• Dramatic mood changes
• No reason for living or no sense of purpose in life

What should you do if you or
someone you know shows these signs?

Take action! Seek help as soon as possible by contacting a mental health professional, a parent, a teacher, or by calling the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). If you feel someone is in immediate danger of taking their own life, call ChAMPS, a mobile crisis service at 202-481-1440/1450 or Department of Mental Health Mobile Crisis at 202-673-9300. For an immediate assessment, you can contact the Department of Mental Health Physician Practice Group at (202) 698-1838. If you are with the person you think is in danger of taking their life, stay with that person until help arrives.