Suicide Recognising The Signs

Helping Through Recognising The warning Signs of Suicidality

If someone you know is struggling, recognising the warning signs of suicidality can be the first step toward helping them stay safe and find support.

Not everyone who is thinking about suicide will show obvious signs, and no single sign means a person will attempt to take their life. However, being aware of the potential warning signs can make a real difference in being able to support someone when they need it most.

Red Flags of Risk

Talking about harming themselves or ending their life
Speaking or writing frequently about death, dying or suicide
Withdrawing from family and friends
Getting their affairs in order (making a will, giving away personal belongings or making arrangements for the care of others)
Making unexpected visits or calls to loved ones, or saying goodbye in a way that suggests they may not expect to see them again.

Not talking about or making arrangements for future events, such as next year or next Christmas, or making statements like “I won’t be around then anyway”
Engaging in self-harm or reckless behaviour which puts their life at risk
Seeking out means to end their life, such as obtaining items that they can use to make an attempt on their life, or looking up methods online

Additional Warning Signs

Talking about feeling hopeless, trapped, like a burden, or that things will never get better.
Increased use of alcohol or drugs
A sudden sense of calm or improvement in mood, not related to any obvious reason for improvement.
Saying things like “I wish I wasn’t here” or “Everyone would be better off without me”
Expressing unbearable emotional pain
Changes in sleep, appetite, or personal hygiene

Situations Which Can Increase Suicidality

Major life events or ongoing stress can increase someone’s risk, such as:

Relationship breakdowns
Loss of a loved one
Financial or legal problems
Being bullied, isolated, or discriminated against
Chronic illness, pain, or mental health struggles
Job loss
Loneliness and isolation
Chronic pain or illness

What You Can Do

If you’re worried about someone, don’t wait. It’s okay to ask directly:

“Are you thinking about suicide?”

This won’t put the idea in their head — but it might give them permission to open up. Listen with compassion, without judgment. Let them know they’re not alone and that help is available.

Encourage them to reach out. In an emergency, contact emergency services or bring them to the nearest hospital. Signpost them to our freephone helpline, 1800 901 909, and let them know they can contact us to arrange counselling for them.

You Are Not Alone

If you are supporting someone who is suicidal, you may need support yourself. Reach out and we will be there to share the load and give you a space to talk about your own feelings as you support someone else.

Whether you’re supporting someone else or struggling yourself, reaching out is a sign of strength. There is hope. There is help.

Services We Provide at SOSAD Ireland

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24 Hour Helpline and Support

Suicide - Recognising The Signs

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