Early Warning Signs & Risk Factors for Suicide
A Prevention Resource
What Are Warning Signs
Warning signs are emotional, behavioral, or situational changes that may indicate someone is struggling with suicidal thoughts or overwhelming distress.
Emotional Warning Signs
- Feeling hopeless, trapped, or like things will never get better
- Intense or unrelenting sadness, anxiety, or agitation
- Irritability or sudden anger
- Feeling like a burden to others
- Sudden sense of calm after a period of intense distress
- Expressing guilt, shame, or worthlessness
Behavioural Warning Signs
- Talking, joking, or writing about death or suicide
- Searching for ways to die
- Giving away meaningful items
- Withdrawing from friends, activities, or routine
- Increased substance use
- Risky, impulsive, or out-of-character behaviour
- Major changes in sleep or eating patterns
- Drop in school or work performance
- Loss of interest in things once enjoyed
Situational Warning Signs
- Recent loss (relationship, job, identity, death)
- Major life transitions
- Experiences of bullying, rejection, or humiliation
- Family conflict
- Chronic illness, pain, or new medical diagnoses
- Trauma or abuse
- Significant financial, academic, or legal stress
Risk Factors
Risk factors do not cause suicide, but they can increase vulnerability.
- Previous suicide attempts
- Mental health conditions (depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder)
- Substance use concerns
- Lack of social connection or isolation
- Access to lethal means
- Family history of suicide
- Experiences of stigma, discrimination, or identity-related stress
Protective Factors
These help increase resilience and reduce risk:
- Feeling connected—to family, friends, school, or community
- A sense of belonging or purpose
- Safe and supportive home environment
- Coping skills and emotional regulation tools
- Cultural or spiritual beliefs that promote hope
- Access to mental-health supports
- Reduced access to lethal means
Red Flags That Need Immediate Action
If you notice any of the following, take them seriously and seek help right away:
- Someone says they want to die or expresses suicidal intent
- Someone has a suicide plan or access to means
- Severe hopelessness or inability to function
- Sudden and dramatic mood improvements after deep despair
- Statements like “Everyone would be better off without me”
- You feel unsafe leaving the person alone
In an emergency, call 911 or your local emergency services.
What You Can Do Right Now
- Notice the changes
- Start the conversation gently
- Stay calm even if you feel scared
- Listen without trying to “fix”
- Ask directly about suicide
- Do not leave the person alone if risk is high
- Seek professional support
- Follow up regularly and keep checking in
Important: Anchored Wings Initiative provides education, awareness, and community-based resources. We are not a crisis line and do not provide counselling, therapy, medical advice, or emergency response.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.