Suicidal thinking is most often a response to deep emotional pain and hopelessness
Common signs of possible suicide risk:
Pulling away from people and things
Having low or no energy
Feeling helpless or hopeless; feeling that change is impossible
Having unexplained aches and pains, such as constant stomachaches or headaches
Excessive smoking, drinking, or using drugs, including prescription medications
Eating or sleeping too much or too little
Action steps:
Listen and empathize: Their perception is their reality. Set aside judgment.
Ask directly: Are they considering suicide?
Remove Dangers: Do they have a plan? Can you remove firearms and medications?
Next Steps: Do not leave the person alone. Connect with your workplace Crisis Response official.
Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255
(Sources: SAMHSA, Forefront Suicide Prevention)