Warning Signs
If a person you know is at risk for suicide, he or she will most often display the following warning signs: An easy way to remember these is by using the acronym: IS PATH WARM?
I Ideation: ?Expressed or communicated ideation
- Threatening to hurt or kill him/herself, or talking of wanting to hurt or kill him/herself
- Looking for ways to kill him/herself by seeking access to firearms, available pills, or other means
- Talking or writing about death, dying or suicide, when these actions are out of the ordinary.
S Substance Abuse: ?Increased substance (alcohol or drug) use
P Purposelessness: No reason for living; no sense of purpose in life
A Anxiety: Anxiety, agitation, unable to sleep or sleeping all the time
T Trapped: ?Feeling trapped (like there’s no way out)
H Hopelessness
W Withdrawal: Withdrawal from friends, family and society
A Anger: Rage, uncontrolled anger, seeking revenge
R Recklessness: Acting reckless or engaging in risk activities, seemingly without thinking
M Mood Change: Dramatic mood changes
Additional Resoucres:
Warning Signs
American Association of Suicidology
www.suicidology.org/Mnemonic
If you are considering suicide
American Association of Suicidology
www.suicidology.org/IfYouAreConsidering
Helping the Suicidal Individual
American Association of Suicidology
www.suicidology.org/Understanding