Suicide is a leading cause of death among young people, but it is also one of the most preventable. Over 90% of individuals who die by suicide have a treatable mental health condition, according to the Mayo Clinic Health System. Having the ability to recognize the most common suicide warning signs early can help save lives. At Western Youth Services (WYS), we believe that understanding exactly how to identify and respond to these signs can be life-changing.
Emotional Warning Signs
When young people experience suicidal thoughts, they often showcase changes in their emotions. Some of the most typical emotional suicide risk factors include:
- Intense feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
- Extreme mood swings, from sadness to irritability
- Feeling like a burden to others
- Emotional withdrawal or loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 1 in 3 high school students reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness in 2021 (CDC, Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 2021).
Behavioral Warning Signs
Shifts in behavior can also be a strong indicator that a younger individual may be struggling. These warning signs might include:
- Changes in sleep patterns like sleeping too much or too little
- Giving away their personal belongings
- Withdrawing/distancing themselves from friends, family, and social activities
- Engaging in risky or self-destructive behaviors, such as substance use
- A noticeable decline in overall school performance or skipping classes
Seeing these actions as signals rather than just dismissing them, is a crucial aspect of preventive care.
Verbal Warning Signs
Sometimes the most direct markers are through words. Phrases that may reveal a suicide risk include:
- “I can’t do this anymore.”
- “I just want it all to stop.”
- “Everyone would be better off without me.”
- Talking about feeling trapped, hopeless, or having no reason to live
Taking these words seriously is critical. These phrases are not attention-seeking and should not be taken lightly or dismissed. Research shows that four out of five teens who attempt suicide give clear warning signs beforehand (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2018).
How WYS Can Help
At Western Youth Services, we are dedicated to building a support system where youth never feel alone. Our suicide prevention resources include:
- School-based programs that connect students with trusted adults and peers trained to recognize warning signs
- Trauma-informed care that addresses underlying experiences impacting mental health
- Professional development workshops for educators and community leaders to better identify and respond to suicide warning signs
At WYS, our care is focused on building safe and inclusive spaces where young people know they are seen, heard, and supported.
Recognizing the suicide risk factors and warning signs is the first step in saving lives. If you or someone you know is struggling, remember that you are not alone. There is help, and there is hope.
If you’re seeking immediate support, dial 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. To learn even more about Western Youth Services programs and how we can support you or your community, visit Western Youth Services.
Crisis and Support Links
- American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
- Mental Health of America
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
- National Institute of Mental Health
Sources:
- https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/5-ways-to-help-teens-overcome-suicidal-thoughts
- https://www.cdc.gov/yrbs/results/2021-yrbs-results.html
- https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/blueprint-for-youth-suicide-prevention/risk-factors-protective-factors-warning-signs-of-youth-suicide/?srsltid=AfmBOorUgGFxN2FeiOIAOPwTVA_VxIhPHdY-QXtalabNZgso46js36td
- https://988lifeline.org/
- https://afsp.org/
- https://mhanational.org/resources/suicide-prevention/
- https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/suicidal-behavior
- https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/suicide-prevention
