NEW YORK
The following information is provided by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Prevent the suicide of loved ones by learning to recognize the signs of someone at risk, taking those signs seriously and knowing how to respond to them.
Warning signs of suicide include:
Observable signs of serious depression:
Unrelenting low mood
Pessimism
Feelings of Hopelessness and/or helplessness
Desperation
Anxiety, psychic pain and inner tension
Withdrawal from activities that previously afforded pleasure
Isolation
Sleep problems
Irritability
Physical complaints: stomach aches, headaches
Increased alcohol and/or other drug use
Recent impulsiveness and taking unnecessary risks
Threatening suicide or expressing a strong wish to die
Making a plan is a sign:
Giving away prized possessions
Sudden or impulsive purchase of a firearm
Obtaining other means of killing oneself such as poisons or medications
Unexpected rage or anger
The emotional crises that usually precede suicide are often recognizable and treatable. Although most depressed people are not suicidal, most suicidal people are depressed. One can help prevent suicide through early recognition and treatment of depression and other psychiatric illnesses.
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