Facing a Crisis?

If you’re worried about someone, the following can be common warning signs, especially if their behavior is new, has increased, or seems related to a painful event, loss, or change.

Elderly couple talking
  • Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves
  • Looking for a way to kill themselves, like searching online or buying a gun
  • Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
  • Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
  • Talking about being a burden to others
  • Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
  • Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
  • Sleeping too little or too much
  • Withdrawing or isolating themselves
  • Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
  • Extreme mood swings
  • Making end of life preparations, such as giving things away

If you are concerned that someone is thinking about suicide, the most caring and helpful thing you can do is to ask them directly if they are having thoughts of suicide. Something like, “I am worried about you. I am wondering if you are thinking about suicide?” It shows concern and also yields an honest response. For other ideas on how to start the conversation, visit https://afsp.org/realconvo or https://www.bethe1to.com/bethe1to-steps-evidence/.

If they say yes, contact one of the following crisis resources:
  • Call 988 (Learn more)
  • For veterans, press 1
  • For Spanish, press 2
  • Go to nearest emergency room
  • Text IN to 741741
  • Trevor Project, 866-488-7386 (LGBTQ+)
  • Trans Lifeline, 877-565-8860
  • remedyLIVE, text remedy 494949 (youth, faith-based)

For after a suicide attempt, see A Journey Toward Health & Hope

For additional resources for helping someone with suicide thoughts, see our Resources page.