Suicide Warning Signs and Resources

Suicide touches everyone—all ages and incomes; all racial, ethnic, and religious groups; and in all parts of the country. The emotional toll on those left behind remains long after the event. In Indiana, more people die every year by suicide than by homicide, and the overall rate of suicide continues to dramatically climb. The statistics are alarming, and death by suicide is one of our state’s most concerning health issues. Learn how to get help for yourself or a loved one and know the warning signs and risk factors for suicide.

Get Help

For help for yourself or others, contact:

  • Call 317-621-5700 (option #1) for Community's 24-hour crisis service.
  • Call 988 for the Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Learn more at https://988lifeline.org.
  • Text IN to 741741 to be connected right away to a trained mental health responder.

Suicide Warning Signs

Suicide is preventable. Seek help as soon as possible by contacting a mental health professional if you or someone you know exhibits any of the following signs*:

  • Threatening to hurt or kill oneself or talking about wanting to hurt or kill oneself
  • Looking for ways to kill oneself by seeking access to firearms, available pills, or other means
  • Talking or writing about death, dying, or suicide when these actions are out of the ordinary for the person
  • Feeling hopeless
  • Feeling rage or uncontrolled anger or seeking revenge
  • Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities – seemingly without thinking
  • Feeling trapped – like there’s no way out
  • Increasing alcohol or drug use
  • Withdrawing from friends, family and society
  • Feeling anxious, agitated or unable to sleep, or sleeping all the time
  • Experiencing dramatic mood changes
  • Seeing no reason for living or having no sense of purpose in life

*From US Department of Health and Human Services

Get Trained To Respond

QPR: Question. Persuade. Refer.

These steps can help save a life, and it’s the same technique first responders and educators use with individuals contemplating suicide. In just one or two hours, either online or in-person, you can become trained in QPR. You’ll learn how to identify warning signs, how to interrupt the crisis and how to direct that person to proper care.

The QPR Institute offers an online QPR Gatekeeper course. Get details and register.

Suicide Touches Everyone

Suicide is the second leading cause of death for youth aged 10-14 (CDC, 2018). In addition, each year:

  • About 6,600 young people ages 14–24 die by suicide (CDC, 2018).
  • Approximately 1 in 5 high school students seriously consider attempting suicide (CDC, 2019).
  • 1 out of 11 high school students attempt suicide one or more times (CDC, 2019).

Sarah's Story

Sarah's struggle with depression started in middle school, but she hid it from her family and friends. She began to hurt herself and planned a suicide. A concerned friend took the first step to get Sarah the help she needed from a school guidance counselor. Sarah's road to recovery has included inpatient and outpatient support groups, and learning how to positively cope with negative thoughts. Today, Sarah encourages others who are struggling to seek help. Watch this video to hear her story and learn the warning signs of suicide.