Warning Signs

Parents and friends should be aware of the following signs of teens who may try to kill themselves:

  • Change in eating and sleeping habits.
  • Withdrawal from friends, family, and regular activities.
  • Violent actions, rebellious behavior, or running.
  • Drug and alcohol use.
  • Unusual neglect of personal appearance.
  • Marked personality change.
  • Persistent boredom, difficulty concentrating, or a decline in the quality of schoolwork.
  • Frequent complaints about physical symptoms, often related to emotions, such as stomachaches, headaches, fatigue, etc.
  • Loss of interest in pleasurable activities.
  • Not tolerating praise or rewards.

A teenager or a child who is planning to commit suicide may also:

  • Complain they are not a good person or feel bad inside.
  • Make statements or verbal hints such as: Nothing matters or I won't see you again.
  • Give away favorite possessions, throw away important belongings, put affairs in order, clean their room, etc.
  • Become suddenly cheerful after a period of depression.
  • Have signs of hallucinations or bizarre thoughts.