Need immediate help? Dial 9-8-8 and press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line
Warning signs
It’s hard to think a loved one might become suicidal. We tend to think things will probably be ok—and that’s usually right. But it can be helpful to look for the signs that someone could be in a crisis.
Have you seen the signs?
Changes in behavior
Sleep issues, using drugs or alcohol more, increased anger, withdrawing from activities and people…
All of these can signal a problem. We can’t always get inside someone’s head, but we often see changes in behavior such as sleeping habits and issues coping with stress.
Life stressors
Relationship break-ups, money issues, legal trouble, health problems…
Stressors can put you in a tailspin. Life crises like break-ups, getting arrested, losing custody, and losing a job can make a person feel trapped or hopeless. For older folks, it’s often multiple health problems and losing one’s independence.
Concerning language
Statements or jokes about hopelessness, worthlessness, feeling like a burden…
Sure, some jokes are just jokes and some statements are just statements. But some are serious. And the best way to know just how serious is to ask and really listen.
