Warning Signs for Suicide

The San Francisco Suicide Prevention Crisis Line has listed the following as possible warning signs:

1. Talking about dying -- any mention of dying, disappearing, jumping, shooting oneself or other types of self harm.

2. Recent loss -- through death, divorce, separation, broken relationship; loss of job, money, status, self-confidence, self-esteem, religious faith; and loss of interest in friends, sex, hobbies or activities previously enjoyed.

3. Change in personality -- sad, withdrawn, irritable, anxious, tired, indecisive or apathetic.

4. Change in behaviour -- can't concentrate at school, work or on routine tasks.

5. Change in sleep patterns -- insomnia, often with early waking or oversleeping, or nightmares.

6. Change in eating habits -- loss of appetite and weight, or overeating.

7. Diminished sexual interest -- impotence or menstrual abnormalities (often missed periods).

8. Fear of losing control -- going crazy, harming self or others.

9. Low self esteem -- feeling worthless, shame, overwhelming guilt, self-hatred, or "everyone would be better off without me".

10. No hope for the future -- believing things will never get better; that nothing will ever change.

11. Other things to watch for -- suicidal impulses, statements, plans; giving away favourite things; and previous suicide attempts, substance abuse, making out wills, arranging for the care of pets, extravagant spending, agitation, hyperactivity, restlessness or lethargy.