A person who is thinking about suicide will usually give clues or signs to those around them that indicate that they are distressed. If you are reading this section, it is very likely that you have already noticed changes in the behaviour of the person you are concerned about.
The following is a list of signals that people might give when they are feeling distressed and overwhelmed, to communicate their distress to others. These signs are indicators that a person might be thinking about suicide. Some of these signs are stronger indicators that a person may be thinking about suicide – these indicators have been bolded. It is more likely that a suicidal person will display a combination of these signs rather than a single sign.
If you notice any of these changes in the thoughts, feelings or behaviour of the person you are concerned about, it is important to ask the person whether he/she has been thinking about suicide. Sometimes people are worried that they might 'put the idea of suicide into the person's head' if they ask about suicide. This is not the case — by asking, you will either confirm your hunch or the person will tell you that he/she isn't suicidal. See What Can I Do To Help?
In some circumstances, a person who is coming out of an episode of depression might have an intention to suicide. This person might have been thinking about it constantly whilst depressed but not had the energy to act on their plans due to the lack of energy that is characteristic of depression. As the person's energy levels improve and he/she becomes more active, he/she might have enough energy to now act on what they had been planning.
It is therefore important for carers and friends to continue to be observant and watch for other signs that might be indicators of distress or thinking about suicide.