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)