Suicide Warning Signs and Risk Factors

  • The most powerful suicide prevention is being aware of the common symptoms and signs in friends, children, and loved ones and taking the necessary steps to get them the help they need.  The following are common warning signs from The Jason Foundation.

    FBISD Speak Up

    Warning Signs 

    Four out of five people who attempt suicide give clear warning signs.

     

    Warning Signs of suicidal ideation include, but are not limited, to the following:

    • Talking about suicide
    • Making statements about feeling hopeless, helpless, or worthless
    • A deepening depression
    • Preoccupation with death
    • Taking unnecessary risks or exhibiting self-destructive behavior
    • Out of character behavior
    • A loss of interest in the things one cares about
    • Visiting or calling people one cares about
    • Making arrangements; setting one's affairs in order
    • Giving prized possessions away

    Along with these warning signs, there are certain Risk Factors that can elevate the possibility of suicidal ideation.

    • Perfectionist personalities
    • Gay and Lesbian youth
    • Learning disabled youth
    • Loners
    • Youth with low self- esteem
    • Depressed youth
    • Students in serious trouble
    • Abused, Molested or Neglected Youth
    • Genetic predisposition
    • Parental history of violence, substance abuse, or divorce
    • You can also review Purdue University's document Our Nation's Young and Suicide for more information.

     

    If you see any of these warning symptoms in others, or if you're experiencing suicidal thoughts and feelings, help is available.  For immediate assistance, call the FBISD TalkLine at 281-240-(TALK) 8255, which is available 24/7.

     

    Students, if you have concerns about a friend, talk to your school counselor or another trusted adult immediatley.  This is not a betrayal of trust but rather a great act of kindness that can save a life.

     

    Parents, if you observe some common signs of suicide and depresion in your child, it is healthy to calmly express your concerns to your child and invite them to talk about their feelings and struggles.  The most important response is compassionate and non-judmental listening.  School counselors are available to assist with this conversation and with finding the professional help and support your child may need.  The Mental Health America-Fort Bend County Resource Guide contains counseling and mental health resources in Fort Bend County.