Know the Signs

Pain isn’t always obvious, but most suicidal people show some signs that they are thinking about suicide. The signs may appear in conversations, through their actions, or in social media posts. If you observe one or more of these warning signs, especially if the behavior is new, has increased, or seems related to a painful event, loss, or change, step in or speak up.

What to do

If any of these signs are present, call the Central Valley Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 9-8-8

  • Talking about death or suicide
  • Seeking methods for self harm, such as searching online or obtaining a gun
  • Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live

For emergencies dial 911

For more information on Knowing the Signs of Suicide please visit suicideispreventable.org

Signs of Suicide can Include

  • Putting Affairs in Order

    • They rush to complete or revise a will.

  • Reckless Behavior

    • They act in ways that could be dangerous or detrimental and they do not seem to care about the consequences.
    • They spend money recklessly.

  • Giving Away Possessions

    • They give away prized or favorite possessions.

  • Changes in Sleep

    • They sleep more or can’t sleep and are restless.

  • Increased Alcohol or Drug Use

    • They increase use of alcohol or drugs.

  • Talking about wanting to die or suicide

    • Their statements might be subtle or vague.
    • They may be direct and literally say they are going to kill themselves.
    • Thoughts may be reflected in something written or drawn.

  • Anxiety or Agitation

    • They appear nervous, shaken or worried.

  • Feeling Hopeless, Desperate, Trapped

    • They don’t see their situation or life changing for the better and don’t see a way out. They make statements that hint that life seems pointless.

  • Uncontrolled Anger

    • They express or act in ways that reflect hostility, bitterness, or resentment or rage. They talk about seeking revenge.

  • Sudden Mood Changes

    • They are uncharacteristically sad or depressed or are unusually happy or content after a period of significant depression.

  • No Sense of purpose

    • They feel like a burden to others.
    • They feel worthless.

  • Withdrawal

    • They stop talking to and doing things with others or stop doing activities they once enjoyed. They feel isolated.

  • Talking about being a burden to others

    • Talking about being a burden to others. Views that one’s existence burdens family, friends and/or society.

Teen Signs

  • Loss of Interest

    • They lose interest in pleasurable activities they once enjoyed.

  • Personality Change

    • They show a significant personality change.

  • Neglect of Personal Appearance

    • They have an unusual neglect of personal appearance, lack of personal hygiene, and stop caring about even basic grooming.

  • Withdrawal

    • They withdraw from friends and family, stop talking to and doing things with others or stop doing activities they once enjoyed. They feel isolated.

  • Changes in Sleep

    • They sleep more or can’t sleep and are restless.

  • Sudden Mood Changes

    • They become suddenly cheerful after a period of depression.

  • Physical Pain

    • They frequently complain about physical symptoms, often related to emotions, such as headaches, stomachaches, fatigue, etc.

  • Substance Abuse

    • They are drinking alcohol or using other drugs.

What to do

If any of these signs are present, call the Central Valley Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 9-8-8

  • Talking about death or suicide
  • Seeking methods for self harm, such as searching online or obtaining a gun
  • Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live

For emergencies dial 911

For more information on Knowing the Signs of Suicide please visit suicideispreventable.org

CONTACT INFO

Email:
solvang@fresnocountyca.gov

Address:
1925 E. Dakota Ave.
Fresno, CA 93726