Recognizing the Signs of Suicidal Behavior and How to Help: A Comprehensive Guide
Chester Bennington’s suicide in 2017 shocked fans worldwide, especially since he had openly discussed his struggles with depression, addiction, and childhood trauma.
Friends, family, and bandmates were aware of his challenges, but the depth of his pain was not fully understood. His close friend, Chris Cornell, had died by suicide just two months earlier, which reportedly affected Chester deeply.
While some signs were visible, suicide can be complex, and predicting or preventing it is difficult, even when warning signs are present. More support might have helped, but it's hard to say definitively if anyone could have stopped it.
Suicide is a tragic and preventable outcome that affects individuals, families, and communities worldwide.
Every year, millions of people grapple with thoughts of ending their lives due to a variety of factors, including mental health issues, trauma, and overwhelming life circumstances.
Recognizing the signs of suicidal behavior and knowing how to help can make a life-saving difference.
This post provides an overview of how to identify suicidal warning signs and the steps you can take to offer support and assistance:
The Importance of Awareness
Understanding the signs of suicidal behavior is critical because individuals contemplating suicide may not always express their feelings overtly. They may be suffering silently, overwhelmed by hopelessness or despair, and may feel that no one understands or cares. Educating yourself and others about the signs can break down this isolation and potentially prevent a tragic outcome.
Suicide doesn’t discriminate based on age, gender, or socioeconomic status—it can affect anyone. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 800,000 people die from suicide each year, making it one of the leading causes of death globally. Early intervention can reduce this number, but first, it requires awareness of the signs.
Common Signs of Suicidal Behavior
Suicidal behavior is often preceded by warning signs, though they may not be obvious at first glance. Below are some key indicators that someone may be contemplating suicide:
1. Talking About Suicide
One of the most direct indicators is when someone expresses thoughts about wanting to die or commit suicide. Statements like:
"I wish I were dead."
"I can't do this anymore."
"Everyone would be better off without me."
These comments, whether made jokingly or seriously, should never be ignored. Even if someone downplays the gravity of their words, it's essential to take them seriously and ask questions to gauge the person's emotional state.
2. Feelings of Hopelessness
People considering suicide often feel an overwhelming sense of hopelessness or despair. They may believe that their situation will never improve and that there’s no escape from their emotional or physical pain. If someone begins expressing hopelessness about their future or a sense of powerlessness in solving their problems, it’s a potential red flag.
3. Withdrawal From Social Connections
Isolating oneself from friends, family, or activities once enjoyed can be a sign that someone is contemplating suicide. This isolation may stem from feelings of worthlessness or the belief that no one cares about them. If someone stops attending social events, avoids phone calls, or disengages from their support network, this behavior may warrant concern.
4. Sudden Mood Changes
Significant shifts in mood can indicate suicidal thoughts. This could include extreme sadness, irritability, anger, or even sudden calmness after a period of depression. The latter is particularly dangerous because it may signify that the person has made a final decision to end their life and feels relief from having a “way out.”
5. Engaging in Risky or Self-Destructive Behavior
Someone thinking about suicide may start engaging in reckless activities, such as driving dangerously, abusing drugs or alcohol, or participating in other high-risk behaviors. They may feel indifferent to their own safety or wellbeing, signaling an emotional crisis.
6. Giving Away Personal Belongings
If someone starts giving away prized possessions or making arrangements for their affairs, it can be a significant warning sign. They may be preparing for their death by ensuring that their loved ones will be taken care of.
7. Changes in Sleeping and Eating Patterns
Sleeping too much or too little, along with sudden changes in appetite or weight, can be indicators of emotional distress. If someone exhibits these behaviors along with other warning signs, it may indicate that they are struggling with suicidal thoughts.
How to Help Someone Who May Be Suicidal
If you suspect someone is contemplating suicide, it’s essential to act. Below are practical steps you can take to support them:
1. Talk to Them Directly
Don’t be afraid to bring up the topic of suicide. Many people avoid discussing suicide out of fear that it will “plant the idea” in someone’s head, but research shows that talking about it openly can actually reduce the risk. You can start by asking:
"Are you thinking about suicide?"
"Do you feel like life is no longer worth living?"
These direct questions allow the person to express their feelings without fear of judgment. It also opens the door to getting them the help they need.
2. Listen Without Judgment
When someone shares their struggles, listen with empathy and without offering immediate solutions. Avoid phrases like, “You’ll be fine” or “It’s not that bad.” These minimize their feelings and may shut down the conversation. Instead, say things like:
"I’m here for you."
"I care about what you’re going through."
"We can get through this together."
3. Encourage Professional Help
While offering emotional support is critical, encouraging the person to seek professional help is equally important. Recommend that they talk to a therapist, counselor, or doctor who can provide more structured support. Offer to help them find resources or even accompany them to their first appointment.
If they’re reluctant to seek professional help, continue to encourage them, but respect their autonomy. However, if the situation is urgent, you may need to involve a crisis helpline or medical professional.
4. Remove Potential Means
If you believe the person is in immediate danger, take steps to remove access to any tools they could use to harm themselves. This may include firearms, sharp objects, medications, or other potential means.
5. Stay Connected
Check in regularly with the person, even after the initial crisis has passed. Let them know they are not alone, and keep reinforcing your support. Building a consistent, reliable connection can reduce feelings of isolation and remind them that someone cares.
Crisis Resources
If you believe someone is in immediate danger of harming themselves, contact emergency services right away. Here are some additional resources:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (U.S.): 1-800-273-8255
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
Samaritans (U.K.): 116 123
International Helplines: Search through Befrienders Worldwide at www.befrienders.org.
Recognizing the signs of suicidal behavior is the first step in preventing tragedy. By educating yourself, offering empathetic support, and encouraging professional help, you can be a vital part of someone’s safety net. Remember, helping someone through a suicidal crisis takes time and persistence, but your support could save a life.
