Warning Signs

Warning Signs of Suicide include:

  • Suicide threats
  • Statements revealing a desire to die
  • Previous suicide attempts
  • Sudden changes in behaviour (withdrawal, apathy, moodiness)
  • Depression (crying, sleeplessness, loss of appetite, hopelessness)
  • Final arrangements (such as giving away personal possessions)

Mnemonic: ‘Is Path Warm?’

  • IIdeation (expressing thoughts of suicide or a wish to die, expression of a plan)
  • SSubstance use (increasing or excessive, increases impulsivity)
  • PPurposelessness (expressions of no purpose or reason for living)
  • AAnxiety/Agitation
  • TTrapped (feelings of being trapped with no way out)
  • HHopelessness/Helplessness
  • WWithdrawal (from family, friends and activities previously enjoyed)
  • AAnger
  • RRecklessness (engaging in impulsive risky behavior)
  • MMood changes (dramatic changes in mood)

(Source: American Association of Suicidology)