Why do I need a suicide risk screening?
You or a loved one may need a suicide risk screening if you notice any of the following warning signs:
Feeling hopeless and/or trapped
Talking about being a burden to others
Increased use of alcohol or drugs
Having extreme mood swings
Withdrawing from social situations or wanting to be alone
A change in eating and/or sleeping habits
You may also need a screening if you have certain risk factors. You may be more likely to try to harm yourself if you have:
Tried to kill yourself before
Depression or other mood disorder
A history of suicide in your family
A history of trauma or abuse
A chronic illness and/or chronic pain
A suicide risk screening can be very helpful for people with these warning signs and risk factors. Other warning signs may need to be addressed immediately. These include:
Talking about suicide or wanting to die
Searching online for ways to kill yourself, getting a gun, or stockpiling medicines such as sleeping pills or pain medicines
Talking about having no reason to live
If you or a loved one has any of these warning signs, seek help right away. Call 911 or
the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
