Recognizing the Warning Signs: What Everyone Should Know About Suicide Risk

Every year, suicide takes the lives of over 45,000 people in the U.S. alone. For every person who dies by suicide, many more have serious thoughts about ending their life. As mental health professionals, we know that early recognition—and early support—can save lives.

September is Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month, but this is a topic that matters all year long. Whether you're concerned about a loved one or simply want to be more informed, this article breaks down the signs, risk factors, and steps you can take if someone you know may be at risk.

Let’s talk about what everyone should know.

Suicide Doesn’t Always Look How You Expect

There’s a common misconception that suicide risk is always obvious—that a person must be crying, withdrawn, or visibly depressed. In reality, some people hide their pain behind a smile. Many appear "fine" until they suddenly aren’t.

That’s why understanding the range of warning signs is so important.

Behavior Changes to Look Out For

While each person is different, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) identifies several behavior changes that may signal suicide risk, especially if they are new, more intense, or linked to a painful event, loss, or major life transition:

• Talking about wanting to die or feeling hopeless

• Expressing unbearable pain, emotional or physical

• Looking for a way to end their life, such as searching online or acquiring means

• Talking about being a burden to others

• Increased use of alcohol or drugs

• Withdrawing from family, friends, or usual activities

• Extreme mood swings

• Changes in sleep—either sleeping too much or too little

• Acting anxious, agitated, or reckless

• Suddenly giving away belongings or saying goodbye

  
  

One sign on its own doesn’t necessarily mean someone is suicidal. But patterns of change, especially when combined with hopelessness or despair, should never be ignored.

Risk Factors to Keep in Mind

Some people may be more vulnerable to suicidal thoughts than others. Risk factors don’t cause suicide, but they can increase the likelihood of a crisis.

Here are some common ones:

• A history of mental health disorders (depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder)

• Substance use

• Chronic pain or major health conditions

• Family history of suicide or trauma

• Recent loss, divorce, or major life change

• Isolation or lack of social support

• Exposure to violence, including domestic abuse or bullying

Again, having one or more of these factors doesn’t mean someone will attempt suicide—but it highlights the importance of staying connected and aware.

What You Can Do If You're Worried

It’s common to feel nervous about bringing up suicide—but silence never helps. Research shows that asking someone directly about suicidal thoughts does not increase the risk. In fact, it can be the first step toward getting help.

Here’s what to do if you're concerned:

• Ask directly and calmly: “Are you thinking about hurting yourself?”

• Listen without judgment. Let them speak. Avoid trying to “fix” it right away.

• Stay present. Don’t leave the person alone if they are in immediate danger.

• Encourage professional help. Offer to help them call a therapist, doctor, or hotline.

• Reach out for support yourself. This is not something you have to—or should—handle alone.

Resources That Can Help

If you or someone you know is struggling, you’re not alone—and there is help available.

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — A free, 24/7, confidential helpline. Dial or text 988 anywhere in the U.S. to connect with trained crisis counselors who can support you or someone you’re worried about.

• Crisis Text Line — Text HELLO to 741741 for confidential, 24/7 support via text. Ideal when speaking out loud feels hard or unsafe.

• 2NDFLOOR NJ Youth Helpline — A confidential, anonymous helpline for New Jersey youth and young adults ages 10–24. Available 24/7 via call or text at 1‑888‑222‑2228, plus an application where youth and young adults can go to connect with licensed therapists 24/7.

Final Thoughts

Recognizing the signs of suicide doesn’t require special training—it just requires awareness, openness, and the willingness to act. You don’t need to be a mental health professional to be a lifeline. Sometimes, simply showing up and saying, “I see you. You matter.” is enough to make all the difference.

If you’re struggling, please know: help is available, and change is possible.

You are not alone. We’re here when you're ready.

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If you’d like to speak with a licensed therapist, contact us at info@theracorpclinic.com or give us a call at (732) 561-8555.