Suicide Warning Signs

Suicide can affect anyone, including children and youth. Take care of the young people you know. Recognize the warning signs. Sudden loss of interest in hobbies, a focus on death and dying, or feelings of hopelessness can be warning signs of suicidal ideation. School absenteeism, a drop in grades, or giving away possessions can also be indicators. Look out for changes in appetite or sleep patterns. Bottom line: if you sense a problem, get help.

Seek assistance at your local school or medical facility. Call CYS or Family Advocacy. Military Family Life Counselors or family pediatricians can help, too. Most importantly: don’t ignore the signs.

Download Info-graph 
 

WARNING SIGNS OF SUICIDAL IDEATION IN CHILDREN/YOUTH

Watch for Changes in Behavior

• Changes in sleeping patterns

• Changes in eating habits

• Withdrawal

• Depression

• Psychosomatic symptoms (headaches, stomach aches, or other pains that can’t be explained)

Remember - Changes may be subtle. Trust your instincts.
 

Preoccupation with Death 

Questions about death are normal; however, if your child/youth begins to display a preoccupation with death, such as researching ways to die or talking about their own death, this could be a warning sign of suicidal ideation.
 

Be Aware of Changes at School

Some changes in grades and attitudes are normal, but a pattern of negative change can be a warning sign. Look for:

• Drop in grades
• Decreased interaction with teachers and peers
• School refusal
• Any loss of interest in activities that were previously enjoyed (sports, clubs, etc.)

Feelings of Hopelessness

Take note if your child/youth displays feelings of hopelessness for the future.  They may communicate this by saying that there is no one able to help.

Children/youth giving away their favorite toys or possessions or even just talking about this can be a sign of hopelessness, especially when combined with other changes.

If you have any concerns that your child/youth may be engaged in suicidal ideation, please

reach out for help.

• School Counselor/Teacher
• Military Family Life Counselor
• CYS Director
• Family Pediatrician
• Family Advocacy Program Manager