Are you concerned that a loved one is thinking about suicide? There are some warning signs that you can look for. A suicidal person may:

• Talk about suicide, death, and/or no reason to live.
• Be preoccupied with death and dying.
• Withdraw from friends and/or social activities.
• Have a recent, severe loss (especially a relationship), or threat of a significant loss.
• Experience drastic changes in behavior.
• Lose interest in hobbies, work, school, etc.
• Prepare for death by making out a will (unexpectedly) and final arrangements.
• Give away prized possessions.
• Have attempted suicide before.
• Take unnecessary risks; be reckless and/or impulsive.
• Lose interest in their personal appearance.
• Increase their use of alcohol or drugs.
• Express a sense of hopelessness.
• Be faced with a situation of humiliation or failure.
• Have a history of violence or hostility.
• Have been unwilling to "connect" with potential helpers.

People in the midst of a crisis often perceive their dilemma as inescapable and feel an utter loss of control. Be aware of their feelings! Frequently, they:

• Can't stop the pain.
• Can't think clearly.
• Can't make decisions.
• Can't see any way out.
• Can't sleep, eat or work.
• Can't get out of the depression.
• Can't make sadness go away.
• Can't see the possibility of change.
• Can't see themselves as worthwhile.
• Can't get someone's attention.
• Can't seem to get control.

Reference:   2-1-1 Big Bend