Suicide Prevention & Warning Signs

09.17.2024

You Are Not Alone. Support is Available.

If you are in crisis, call or text 988 - the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Suicide Warning Signs

People who die by suicide exhibit one or more warning signs, either through what they say or do. The more warning signs, the greater the risk. Read this helpful guide from our partner The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP).

What to Watch For if You Feel Someone is at Risk:

If a person talks about:

Being a burden to others
Feeling trapped
Experiencing unbearable pain
Having no reason to live
Killing themselves

Specific behaviors to look out for include:

Increased use of alcohol or drugs
Looking for a way to kill themselves, such as searching online for materials or means
Acting recklessly
Withdrawing from activities
Isolating from family and friends
Sleeping too much or too little
Visiting or calling people to say goodbye
Giving away prized possessions
Aggression

People who are considering suicide often display one or more of the following moods:

Depression
Loss of interest
Rage
Irritability
Humiliation
Anxiety

Prevention: 5 Action Steps for Helping Someone in Emotional Pain:

Ask: “Are you thinking about killing yourself?” It’s not an easy question but studies show that asking at-risk individuals if they are suicidal does not increase suicides or suicidal thoughts.
Keep them safe: Reducing a suicidal person’s access to highly lethal items or places is an important part of suicide prevention. While this is not always easy, asking if the at-risk person has a plan and removing or disabling the lethal means can make a difference.
Be there: Listen carefully and learn what the individual is thinking and feeling. Findings suggest acknowledging and talking about suicide may in fact reduce rather than increase suicidal thoughts.
Help them connect: Save the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s number in your phone so it’s there when you need it: 988. You can also help make a connection with a trusted individual like a family member, friend, spiritual advisor, or mental health professional. If you are outside of the U.S., please visit the International Association for Suicide Prevention for a database of international resources.
Stay Connected: Staying in touch after a crisis or after being discharged from care can make a difference. Studies have shown the number of suicide deaths goes down when someone follows up with the at-risk person.

Men and Suicide: Key Facts, Signs, and Support

Key Statistics (U.S.)

Men die by suicide about 4x more often than women, even though women report more attempts and are more often diagnosed with depression.
About 60% of men who die by suicide have no known mental health diagnosis, often due to underdiagnosis or not seeking care.
Firearms are involved in over 50% of suicide deaths, contributing to higher lethality among men.
Suicide rates are highest among men ages 75+, but it is also a leading cause of death for men ages 15–34.

Warning Signs in Men

Men may not always express sadness directly. Distress often shows up through behavior changes such as:

Increased anger, irritability, or aggression
Withdrawal from friends, family, or usual activities
Overworking or excessive distraction (work, sports, gaming)
Risky behavior (reckless driving, unsafe choices)
Increased alcohol or drug use
Physical complaints (headaches, pain, stomach issues without clear cause)
Statements like “people would be better off without me” or feeling like a burden

Treatment and Seeking Help for Yourself or a Loved One

1. Professional Support

Therapy (especially CBT) helps identify and change harmful thought patterns
Medication can help with depression or anxiety when needed
Many men respond well to goal-focused, problem-solving approaches

2. Social & Lifestyle Support

Peer connection reduces isolation and stigma
Safe storage of firearms and medications can prevent impulsive actions
Regular physical activity supports mood and stress reduction

3. How to Help Someone You’re Worried About

Be direct and calm. Asking, “Are you thinking about suicide or hurting yourself?” does not increase risk, it often brings relief and opens the door to help.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or dial 911 immediately. Para ayuda en español, llame al 988.

Discover more on men's mental health.

Please also see ADAA 's Suicide Support, Treatment, and Resource Page

It may also be helpful to save several emergency numbers in your cell phone. The ability to get immediate help for yourself or for a friend can make a difference.