If You Are In Crisis Call 1-800-273-8255

Or Text "ALLY" to 741-741

Suicide is the tenth leading cause of death across the United States. According to WHO, close to 800,000 people succumb to suicide every year. Globally, people between the age of 15-29 years are known to have these tendencies. The numbers could be higher because the stigma associated with mental health might prevent many from reaching out and asking for help. And the reasons could be many - financial strain, loss of a job, loss of a loved one in the family or friends, relationship issues, or any other significant changes in life. 

Suicidal tendencies can occur to anyone at any time. It does not discriminate based on age, gender, wealth, or race. But being aware of the warning signs is important. The National Institute of Mental Health has listed a few symptoms that you can look for. Here are a few:

  • Feeling hopeless

  • Feelings of anger or rage. 

  • Making vague statements about death 

  • Acting recklessly or engaging in risky activities without thinking

  • Feeling trapped, like there is no way out

  • Withdrawn from family and friends

  • Feelings of anxiety, restlessness, and changes in sleeping habits

  • Changes in moods

  • Lacking purpose in life 

If you believe someone is exhibiting all or some of these symptoms, they should be taken seriously.

Suicide is a complex topic. The diagnoses for each individual’s thoughts and actions vary with age, gender, and his/her state of mind. Often the family and friends are the first to recognize the warning signs but might be unaware of how to help them. Here are five actions for helping someone emotionally during this time:

Ask:  Are you thinking about killing yourself? - It’s not as easy as it sounds, but studies show that asking at-risk individuals whether or not they are social does not increase those suicidal thoughts.Keep them safe:  Reduce the suicidal person’s access to lethal items or places is an essential part of suicide prevention. While it’s not easy, removing things can make a difference. 

Be there: Listen to them and learn what the individual is feeling. Research suggests that acknowledging and talking about suicide may reduce rather than increase suicidal thoughts. 

Help them connect : Save the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s (1-800-273-TALK (8255) and the Crisis Text Line’s number (741741)  on your phone, so it’s there when you need it. You can also help make a connection with a trusted individual like a family member, friend, spiritual advisor, or mental health professional.

Stay connected:Staying in touch after a crisis or after being discharged from care can make a difference. Studies have shown the number of suicide deaths goes down when someone follows up with the at-risk person.


Some believe that suicide is selfish, but it is often an act of desperation. Those considering suicide feel helpless and think that suicide is the only solution. They have lost hope and don’t believe that things will get better. However, there is hope. If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Call 24/7 1-800-273-8255