Suicide Prevention: Warning Signs and When to Seek Help

Suicide is one of the most pressing public health issues in the United States today. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is the 11th leading cause of death overall.

For young people ages 10–24, it ranks even higher, making suicide the second leading cause of death in this age group. These numbers show that suicide is not just a statistic—it is a crisis affecting families, schools, and communities across the nation.

Understanding the Numbers

In 2023, suicide rates revealed concerning patterns:

• By age: The highest rates were seen among adults 75 and older and those between 25 and 34 years old.
• By gender: Men die by suicide nearly four times more often than women, though women attempt more frequently.
• By race/ethnicity: Non-Hispanic American Indian/Alaska Native populations face the highest rates. Rising suicide attempts and deaths among Black youth and Hispanic adolescents also highlight growing disparities.
• By population group: White males continue to represent the largest number of deaths each year.

These patterns remind us that suicide affects people differently depending on their age, gender, and cultural background. Suicide prevention efforts need to be sensitive and tailored to these realities.

Warning Signs to Look For

Recognizing early signs of suicidal thinking or depression can save lives. Common warning signs include:

• Talking about death, hopelessness, or being a burden.
• Withdrawing from family, friends, or activities they once enjoyed.
• Sudden mood swings, anger, or deep sadness.
• Increased use of alcohol or drugs.
• Decline in daily functioning, such as falling grades or poor work performance.
• Giving away belongings or saying goodbye in unusual ways.

Not everyone will show all these signs, but noticing a few in yourself, your child, or someone you care about should be taken seriously.

Suicide Prevention and How to Help

If you believe someone is struggling, the first step is to listen without judgment. Let them know their feelings are valid and that you are there to support them.

When to Seek Help

For adults, seeking help is important if feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or suicidal thoughts last more than two weeks or interfere with daily life. If you find yourself unable to cope, reach out for support from a therapist, doctor, or crisis hotline.

For children and teens, warning signs can sometimes look different. Parents should seek help if their child:

• Talks about wanting to die or expresses hopelessness.
• Shows drastic changes in behavior, such as irritability, aggression, or isolation.
• Engages in self-harm or risky behaviors.
• Declines academically or socially in sudden ways.

If you’re unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. Early intervention can make a profound difference. Also, don’t be afraid to ask your child or teen if they are considering suicide. Asking won’t make them more likely to do it or make them start considering suicide if they have not already. 

Crisis Resources

If you or someone you love is in immediate danger, call 911. In the United States, you can also contact:

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for free, 24/7 confidential support.
• Crisis Text Line: Text HELLO to 741741.

Final Thoughts

Suicide prevention is not just about statistics—it’s about compassion, awareness, and action. By knowing the signs, having open conversations, and reaching out for help when needed, we can reduce the risk and help people feel less alone.

If you or your loved one is struggling, please remember: hope and healing are possible, and help is available. If you are concerned that your child, yourself, or someone you know may be at risk of suicide, therapists at Be Inspired Counseling & Consulting are available to help during this challenging time and want to help.

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