Mental Health
2: My loved one seems more depressed or anxious than usual. Should I be worried that they might attempt suicide?

“2: My loved one seems more depressed or anxious than usual. Should I be worried that they might attempt suicide?” Mental Health: Help for Parents and Families (2019)

“My Loved One Seems More Depressed Than Usual,” Mental Health: Help for Parents and Families

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My loved one seems more depressed or anxious than usual. Should I be worried that they might attempt suicide?

When someone feels depressed or anxious, it does not mean that they are considering suicide. However, learning the common warning signs of suicide can help you know when to seek additional help and prevent a crisis. The most common signs, as outlined by the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, include:

  • Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves.

  • Looking for a way to kill themselves, such as searching online or buying a weapon.

  • Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.

  • Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain.

  • Talking about being a burden to others.

  • Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.

  • Acting anxious or agitated or behaving recklessly.

  • Sleeping too little or too much.

  • Withdrawing or isolating themselves.

  • Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.

  • Displaying extreme mood swings.

Learn more about suicide and how to prevent it at PreventingSuicide.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.