Suicidal ideation (having thoughts about suicide) and self-harm (engaging in destructive behaviors with the intention of hurting oneself) are very serious.  This page provides information on warning signs, risk factors, and what steps to take if you feel that you or a loved one are at risk for suicide or self-harm.  If you feel that you or a loved one are at risk for suicide,  please refer to the 24-Hour Support Lines page within this website.  In case of an emergency, call 911.

Warning Signs

There are many different warning signs for suicide and self-harm.  These first three warning signs are considered immediate warning signs, and should prompt a call to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255:

• Talking about wanting to die or wanting to kill oneself

• Looking for a way to kill or hurt oneself

• Talking about feeling empty, hopeless, or having no reason to live

The following warning signs may not be as immediate as the warning signs above, but are still considered serious, and should be addressed right away:

• Talking about feeling trapped

• Talking about feeling like a burden to others

• Frequently talking about death 

• Having strong feelings of guilt or shame

• Acting anxious, agitated, or reckless

• Changes in sleeping or eating habits

• Having major mood swings

• Withdrawing from family or friends

• Talking about seeking revenge

• Giving away possessions

• Using or increasing use of alcohol or drugs

Risk Factors

Risk factors are things that can increase the chances of engaging in suicidal ideation or self-harm.  Below is a list of different risk factors:

• Depression

• Other mental disorders

• Previous suicide attempts

• Chronic pain

• Family history of violence or suicide

• Family history of drug abuse

• Having firearms available at home

• Exposure to suicidal behavior from others, including through media

How to Help Someone In Crisis

It can be very scary if you or someone you love are struggling with suicidal ideation or self-harm.  Fortunately, help is available.  The steps listed below can help guide you when you or someone you love is struggling with thoughts of suicide or self-harm.

1. Ask!  Ask the person "Are you thinking about killing yourself?" or "Are you thinking about hurting yourself?"  Although this is not an easy question to ask, it is important to have an open and direct conversation.  Studies show that these questions do not increase the likelihood of suicidal thoughts or thoughts of self-harm.

2. Keep the person safe!  Ask the person if they have a plan for hurting themselves.  If they have a plan that involves any items in the household, prevent access to those items.  Keep any lethal items in the house locked up.

3. Listen!  Talk to the person about what they are feeling and thinking.  Again, studies show that talking about suicide and self-harm does not increase the likelihood that those thoughts will occur.  While talking with the person, allow them to speak freely.  Check out the page on How to Be an Active Listener for tips on how to better listen to a person who is in crisis.

4. Find support!  If in an immediate crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 for help.  They are available 24/7.  For additional hotline resources, please check out the 24-hour Support Hotlines page.  If you or your loved one are not in an immediate crisis but need outside supports, please refer to the Counseling Resources page to find counseling help in the Lake County and Kenosha County areas.

5. Follow-up!  After having a discussion with someone about suicidal ideation or self-harm, be sure to follow up with them.  Ask them how they have been doing, if they have noticed any changes, and if they need more help.  

If you know someone on social media who is displaying warning signs of suicidal ideation or self-harm, there are ways to help that person.  At the bottom of the page in this link to The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, there are instructions on how to help someone who has posted concerning content on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, or Tumblr.