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Suicide

Warning Signs
 

Suicide and suicidal behaviors come from a complex interaction among individual (psychological, genetic, biological), social (family, peer group, cultural), and environmental (e.g., firearm availability) factors.

These factors can be divided into two categories.  Risk factors may make an individual more susceptible to suicidal thinking and suicidal behavior.  Warning Signs are factors that may signal that an individual has become suicidal.

These are some of the warning signs identified by research and clinicians.  They are not listed in any particular order.

  • Talks about suicide, death or having no reason to live
  • Is preoccupied with death and dying
  • Has trouble eating or sleeping
  • Experiences drastic changes in behavior
  • Withdraws from friends or social activities
  • Loses interest in hobbies, work, school, etc.
  • Prepares for death by making out a will and final arrangements
  • Gives away prized possessions
  • Takes unnecessary risks
  • Relationship difficulties including a recent loss or threat of significant loss
  • Loses interest in their personal appearance
  • Increases their use of alcohol or drugs
  • Expresses a sense of hopelessness
  • Is faced with a situation of humiliation or failure
  • Performance difficulties
  • Legal or financial trouble
  • Is unwilling to "connect" with potential helpers
     
The Facts

Suicide Basics
College Age Suicide
Depression and Suicide
Alcohol and Suicide
Race and Suicide
Gender and Suicide
Common Myths Debunked

Seeing It

Warning Signs
Risk Factors
Feelings/Thoughts/Behaviors
 

 

Main Suicide Page

Prevention

How to Help
The Navy Model - AID LIFE
USNA/MDC Resources
Navy/Marine Corps Links
AFSP Teen Prevention Videos
Other Resources

Bancroft Hall
8th Wing Mezzanine
Seaward Ladder

United States Naval Academy
Midshipman Development Center
Annapolis, MD 21402-5045

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FAX (410) 293-4898