Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Warning signs

Sometimes, suicidal thoughts can stem from underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. Like physical illnesses, mental illnesses have symptoms, including warning signs that a person may be thinking about ending their life. However, it is important to understand that not everyone with a mental illness is suicidal, and not everyone who considers suicide has a mental illness. When a person is thinking about suicide, they may show noticeable changes in their thoughts, behaviour, or actions.

What people contemplating suicide might say?

•  Killing themselves
•  Feeling hopeless
•  Having no reason to live
•  Being a burden to others
•  Feeling trapped
•  Unbearable pain (physical or emotional)

Possible Warning Signs of Suicidal Behavior

A person who is seriously thinking about suicide may begin acting impulsively or taking unusual risks. Some signs may include:

• Increasing their use of alcohol or drugs

• Searching online or elsewhere for ways to end their life

• Pulling away from hobbies, school, or activities they once enjoyed

• Avoiding family members, friends, and other loved ones

• Sleeping far more or far less than usual

• Saying goodbye in ways that seem final or unusual

• Giving away meaningful or valuable belongings

• Showing sudden anger or aggressive behavior

How People Contemplating Suicide Might Feel

A person thinking about ending their life is often experiencing intense and overwhelming emotions. Both outside pressures and internal struggles can contribute to this risk.

The world around us affects how we think, feel, and behave. External challenges—such as relationship difficulties, work or school stress, trauma, or major life changes—can increase emotional strain. At the same time, internal factors—such as difficulty processing emotions or managing distress—can make it harder to cope.

Suicide Risk Factors

Certain mental and physical health conditions are linked to a higher risk of suicide, including:

• Depression

• Anxiety disorders

• Bipolar disorder

• Schizophrenia

• Substance use or addiction

• Chronic pain or serious medical conditions

• Traumatic brain injury

1. Internal Factors 

A person at risk may experience:

• Persistent sadness or hopelessness

• Anxiety or excessive worry

• Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed

• Irritability

• Feelings of shame or humiliation

• Agitation or restlessness

• Intense anger or rage

• Extreme fatigue or emotional exhaustion

• Prolonged stress

2. External Factors (“The External Stuff”)

Situations in a person’s environment can also increase risk, such as:

• Access to lethal means (e.g., firearms or large quantities of medication)

• Major life changes or stressful events

• Exposure to another person’s suicide (a loved one, public figure, or fictional character)

• Previous suicide attempts

• Family history of suicide

• Childhood abuse, neglect, or trauma

How to Support Someone Who May Be Struggling

The most powerful thing you can do is listen. Truly listening—without judgment, interruption, or trying to “fix” everything—can make a meaningful difference. Let the person know you are there to hear what’s going on in their mind and heart.

Ways to Offer Support

• Ask how you can help.
  Give them some control by asking what would feel supportive. It could be sitting with them when they feel lonely, helping them look for a therapist, or simply checking in regularly.

• Avoid jumping to advice.
  Try not to rush into problem-solving. Statements that begin with “you should…” can unintentionally make someone feel unheard. Focus first on understanding, not fixing.

• Keep it natural and comfortable.
  You don’t need a formal setting. Invite them for coffee, watch a show together, or study side by side. A relaxed environment can make difficult conversations feel safer.

• Let them share at their own pace.
  If they’re not ready to talk, reassure them that you’re available whenever they are. Patience builds trust.

• Encourage professional support.
  Gently suggest reaching out to a counselor, doctor, or crisis service. Offer to help them take that step if they’d like.

Starting the Conversation

Tough conversations can feel intimidating, but they matter. You might say:

• “I’ve noticed you haven’t seemed like yourself lately. I care about you—do you want to talk?”

• “You don’t have to go through this alone. I’m here to listen.”

• “How can I support you right now?”

Facing This Together

Suicide is preventable, and support plays a crucial role. If someone you care about is struggling, it can feel heavy—for both of you. But choosing not to look away, choosing to stay present, can help create space for healing.

No one has to face their hardest moments alone. Help is available. Support is real. And together, even difficult conversations can become a starting point for hope.