Suicide Prevention & Help
What is suicide?
Suicide is death caused by injuring oneself with the intent to die. A suicide attempt is when someone harms themselves with any intent to end their life, but they do not die as a result of their actions.
Source: CDC
Warning Signs of Suicide
Warning signs that someone may be at immediate risk for attempting suicide include:
Talking about wanting to die or wanting to kill themselves
Talking about feeling empty or hopeless or having no reason to live
Talking about feeling trapped or feeling that there are no solutions
Feeling unbearable emotional or physical pain
Talking about being a burden to others
Withdrawing from family and friends
Giving away important possessions
Saying goodbye to friends and family
Putting affairs in order, such as making a will
Taking great risks that could lead to death, such as driving extremely fast
Talking or thinking about death often
Source: NIH
What can put someone at risk of suicide?
People of all genders, ages, and ethnicities can be at risk for suicide.
The main risk factors for suicide are:
A history of suicide attempts
Depression, other mental disorders, or substance use disorder
Chronic pain
Family history of a mental disorder or substance use
Family history of suicide
Exposure to family violence, including physical or sexual abuse
The presence of guns or other firearms in the home
Having recently been released from prison or jail
Exposure, either directly or indirectly, to others’ suicidal behavior, such as that of family members, peers, or celebrities
Source: NIH
What should I do if I am struggling or someone I know is having thoughts of suicide?
If you notice warning signs of suicide—especially a change in behavior or new, concerning behavior—get help as soon as possible.
Family and friends are often the first to recognize the warning signs of suicide, and they can take the first step toward helping a loved one find mental health treatment.
If someone tells you that they are going to kill themselves, do not leave them alone. Do not promise that you will keep their suicidal thoughts a secret—tell a trusted friend, family member, or other trusted adult.
Call 911 if there is an immediate life-threatening situation.
You also can contact:
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
988lifeline.org
Call or text 988; Llame al 988 (para ayuda en español)
The Lifeline provides 24-hour, confidential support to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. Call or text 988 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. Support is also available in English via chat at
Learn more about suicide HERE
Source: NIH