Know the Warning Signs of Suicide

How do you remember the Warning Signs of Suicide?

Here’s an easy-to-remember mnemonic:

IS PATH WARM?

I Ideation

S Substance Abuse

P Purposelessness

A Anxiety

T Trapped

H Hopelessness

W Withdrawal

A Anger

R Recklessness

M Mood Changes

A person in acute risk for suicidal behavior most often will show these Warning Signs

Threatening to hurt or kill him or herself, or talking of wanting to hurt or kill him/herself; and or,
Looking for ways to kill him/herself by seeking access to firearms, available pills, or other means; and/or,
Talking or writing about death, dying or suicide, when these actions are out of the ordinary.

These might be remembered as expressed or communicated ideation. If observed, seek help as soon as possible by contacting a mental health professional or calling 988 for a referral.

Expanded Warning Signs:

Increased substance (alcohol or drug) use
No reason for living; no sense of purpose in life
Anxiety, agitation, unable to sleep or sleeping all of the time
Feeling trapped – like there’s no way out
Hopelessness
Withdrawal from friends, family and society
Rage, uncontrolled anger, seeking revenge
Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities, seemingly without thinking
Dramatic mood changes

If observed, seek help as soon as possible by contacting a mental health professional or calling 988 for a referral.

How you can help a friend

DO LISTEN: Do take your friend seriously
DO SHOW SUPPORT: Do talk openly, ask questions, stay with the person and tell your friend you care
DO ACT: Do share the burden, tell someone else, get help immediately

What not to do

DO NOT IGNORE THE PROBLEM: Don’t avoid the issue, act shocked, joke, disbelieve or argue with the person
DO NOT KEEP THE SECRET: Don’t keep information about suicide a secret
DO NOT DELAY ACTION: Don’t leave the person alone or handle the problem alone