Mental health challenges are a growing concern for teens and young adults. Suicide rates among young people have also increased over the past decade. This is why Meg’s Legacy of Hope is supporting at-risk youth by granting funds to programs to guide these young people toward the needed mental health resources to empower them to live long, full lives.
Have you ever been concerned that a person may be suicidal? One important sign to watch for when you are concerned someone may be suicidal is a noticeable change in behavior—or the emergence of entirely new actions or behaviors. These changes are especially concerning if they follow a painful event, significant loss, or major life change. Most people who take their lives exhibit one or more warning signs, either through what they say or what they do.
Talk – If a person talks about:
- Killing themselves
- Feeling hopeless
- Having no reason to live
- Being a burden to others
- Feeling trapped
- Unbearable pain
Behavior – Behaviors that may signal risk, especially if related to a painful event, loss or change:
- Increased use of alcohol or drugs
- Looking for a way to end their lives, such as searching online for methods
- Withdrawing from activities
- Isolating from family and friends
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Visiting or calling people to say goodbye
- Giving away prized possessions
- Aggression
- Fatigue
Mood – People who are considering suicide often display one or more of the following moods:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Loss of interest
- Irritability
- Humiliation/Shame
- Agitation/Anger
- Relief/Sudden Improvement
Source: American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
