Depression is a major risk for suicide. The true hopelessness that we experience with depression can make suicide feel like the only way to escape our despair. It is important for us to inform ourselves to be able to recognize the warning signs of depression or suicidal thoughts. Please take any kind of suicidal talk seriously. Here are some warning signs to look out for:
If you have any inclination that a friend or family member is suicidal, we should communicate our concerns and seek help immediately. Talking openly about suicidal thoughts and feelings. THIS CAN SAVE LIVES!
- Talking about harming themselves in anyway
- Communicating strong feelings of hopelessness and despair
- Acting recklessly, or behaviors that may be totally out of the “ordinary” for that person
- Calling or visiting to say goodbye out of the blue
- Someone becoming interested in dying or death
- Saying things like “I feel everyone would be better without me” or “I don’t want to be here”
- Giving away possessions
- A sudden change from extreme depression to being calm and happy
If you have any inclination that a friend or family member is suicidal, we should communicate our concerns and seek help immediately. Talking openly about suicidal thoughts and feelings. THIS CAN SAVE LIVES!
