The Signs
here are several behavioral indicators that can help parents or friends recognize the threat of suicide in a loved one. Since mental and substance-related disorders frequently accompany suicidal behavior, many of the cues to be looked for are symptoms associated with such disorders as depression, bipolar disorder (manic depression), anxiety disorders, alcohol and drug use, disruptive behavior disorders, and schizophrenia.
Some common symptoms of these disorders include:
- Extreme personality changes
- Loss of interest in activities that used to be enjoyable
- Significant loss or gain in appetite
- Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep or wanting to sleep all day
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Withdrawal from family and friends
- Neglect of personal appearance or hygiene
- Sadness, irritability, or indifference
- Having trouble concentrating
- Extreme anxiety or panic
- Drug or alcohol use or abuse
- Aggressive, destructive, or defiant behavior
- Poor school performance
- Hallucinations or unusual beliefs
Tragically, many of these signs go unrecognized. While suffering from one of these symptoms certainly does not imply that one is suicidal, it's always best to communicate openly with a loved one who is demonstrating more of these behaviors; especially if these behavior are out of character. Here are some obvious signs to look for is someone you love is contemplating suicide.
- Putting one's affairs in order
- Giving or throwing away favorite belongings
- Talk of death or suicide should be taken seriously and paid close attention to