Recognizing Suicide Warning Signs: A Life-Saving Guide

Warning Signs of Suicide Risk (IS PATH WARM Mnemonic)

Suicide is preventable. Recognizing warning signs enables timely intervention.

IS PATH WARM — Core Warning Signs

• Ideation — talking, writing, thinking about death/suicide
• Substance use — increased alcohol/drugs
• Purposelessness — no reason to live
• Anxiety — agitation, insomnia, panic
• Trapped — feeling no way out
• Hopelessness — "nothing will change"
• Withdrawal — from friends, family, activities
• Anger — rage, revenge-seeking
• Recklessness — risky behaviors, impulsivity
• Mood changes — dramatic shifts, sudden calm after depression

Additional Critical Signs

• Giving away possessions, making a will
• Saying goodbye (directly or cryptically)
• Acquiring means (gun, pills, rope)
• Previous attempt (strongest predictor)
• Family history of suicide
• Recent loss (relationship, job, health, finances)
• Chronic illness/pain

Immediate Action: QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer)

1. Ask directly: "Are you thinking about suicide?" / "Are you thinking about killing yourself?" — asking does not plant the idea.
2. Persuade: "Let me help you get help." "You matter." "I'll stay with you."
3. Refer: Connect to crisis resources NOW:
   • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call/text 988) — US/Canada
   • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
   • Veterans: 988 then press 1
   • International: IASP / Befrienders
   • Emergency: 911 (US) if imminent danger

Safety Planning

• Remove means (firearms → off-site storage; medications → lock box / blister packs)
• Create written safety plan with coping strategies, contacts, crisis resources
• Follow up — don't leave person alone if high risk

You don't need to be a professional to save a life. Show up. Listen. Connect to help.