The warning signs of suicide

Suicide is rarely a spur of the moment decision. In the days and hours before people kill themselves, there are usually clues and warning signs.  The strongest and most disturbing signs are verbal  such as "I can't go on" "Nothing matters any more" or even "I'm thinking of ending it all." Such remarks should always be taken seriously.

Other common warning signs include:

• Becoming depressed or withdrawn
   
• Behaving recklessly
   
• Getting affairs in order and giving away valued possessions
   
• Showing a marked change in behaviour, attitudes or appearance
   
• Abusing drugs or alcohol
   
• Suffering a major loss or life change

The following list gives more examples, all of which can be signs that somebody is contemplating suicide. Of course, in most cases these situations do not lead to suicide. But, generally, the more signs a person displays, the higher the risk of suicide.

Situations
Family history of suicide or violence
Sexual or physical abuse
Death of a close friend or family member
Divorce or separation, ending a relationship
Failing academic performance, impending exams, exam results
Job loss, problems at work
Impending legal action
Recent imprisonment or upcoming release

Behaviours
Crying
Fighting
Breaking the law
Impulsiveness
Self-mutilation
Writing about death and suicide
Previous suicidal behaviour
Extremes of behaviour
Changes in behaviour

Physical Changes
Lack of energy
Disturbed sleep patterns - sleeping too much or too little
Loss of appetite
Sudden weight gain or loss
Increase in minor illnesses
Change of sexual interest
Sudden change in appearance
Lack of interest in appearance

Thoughts and Emotions
Thoughts of suicide
Loneliness - lack of support from family and friends
Rejection, feeling marginalized
Deep sadness or guilt
Unable to see beyond a narrow focus
Daydreaming
Anxiety and stress
Helplessness
Loss of self-worth

HELPLINES

France
Suicide Ecoute
PARIS
Tel: 0033 1 45 39 4000
Services by: Telephone
Website: http://suicide.ecoute.free.fr

SOS Help - Confidential listening line in English
Boite Postale 43,
Boulogne, Cedex 92101
Tel: 0033 1 46 21 46 46
Services by: Telephone (3-11pm)
Website: www.soshelpline.org 

Fil Sante Jeunes
PARIS
Tel: 0033 800 235 236
Services by: Telephone
Website for young people: www.filsantejeunes.com