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Sep 1, 2022

Suicide Awareness: Recognize The Signs


No one wants to think about it, but the reality is that suicide and suicidal thoughts are real. We all have times in our lives when we feel alone, hopeless, and like we don't belong. The critical thing to remember is that even if you feel this way, you are never really alone. There are people who care about you and want to help. This article will provide some tips for recognizing the signs of someone who is suicidal, as well as five resources you can turn to if you think someone might be suicidal or if you yourself are feeling suicidal.


Mental Illness and Suicide


Mental illness is a very real and serious issue that can lead to dire consequences if left unaddressed for extended periods of time. It is essential to be aware of the signs of mental illness and to get help if you or someone you know is struggling. If you are worried about someone, reach out to them and ask how they are doing. If they seem in danger of harming themselves, don't leave them alone and get help from a professional or a hotline immediately.


If you are struggling with mental illness, know that you are not alone and there is help available. Talk to your doctor or a therapist, and reach out to a support group or hotline if you need someone to talk to. There is no shame in getting help; it could save your life.


Recognizing Thoughts of Suicide


If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, it's important to recognize the signs and get help. If you’ve been struggling with your mental health for a while, and you’re not sure if what you’ve been feeling is getting to a dangerous point, take a moment to check in with yourself. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it may be time for you to reach out to a doctor or therapist for help.


Feeling sad or depressed on most days

Feeling guilty or worthless

Feeling helpless and like there’s nothing you can do to feel better

Loss of interest in hobbies you once enjoyed

Loss of interest in relationships with friends, family, coworkers, or romantic partners

Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much

Changes in eating (eating too much or not enough)

Feeling fatigued

Having thoughts of injuring yourself or dying

Feeling the urge to prepare for the end of your life, including drawing up a will, making funeral plans, giving away possessions, cleaning/packing up your living spaces, etc.


If you’re experiencing some of these symptoms, you should reach out to a professional and your loved ones for support.




Signs Someone is Suicidal

It can be challenging to tell if someone is suicidal, but there are some signs that you can look for. If you are worried about someone, you must talk to them about your concerns. Here are some signs that someone may be suicidal:


  • Talking about wanting to die or hurt themselves

  • Expressing feelings of being a burden on others

  • Expressing feelings of hopelessness or being trapped

  • Withdrawing from friends and activities

  • Increasing alcohol or drug abuse

  • Acting recklessly or engaging in risky behaviors

  • Sleeping too much or too little

  • Exhibiting changes in eating habits

  • Giving away prized possessions

  • Expressing rage or talking about seeking revenge

  • Preoccupation with death in their artwork, writing, or social media posts


Resources for Support


If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, you must reach out for help. Here are some resources that can provide support:


The Suicide Prevention Lifeline

The Trevor Project


The Trevor Project is the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning young people under 25.

Support for Veterans and Their Loved Ones


The Veterans Crisis Line connects Veterans in crisis and their families and friends with qualified, caring, and confidential support 24/7.

Crisis Text Line


Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7 crisis support and trains volunteers to support people in crisis.

Mental Health Technology Transfer Center Network


The MHTTC provides training and technical assistance to enhance the capacity of behavioral health and related workforces to deliver evidence-based practices to people with mental illness. Its Northeast and Caribbean region provides many resources in English and Spanish and recently produced two resources for assessing and evaluating suicide risk.

Texas Suicide Prevention Collaborative


provides free resources, educational information, phone apps, and training.

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention


AFSP has local chapters throughout the state that can deliver education programs to schools, workplaces, and communities.

National Alliance on Mental Illness


NAMI is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness. Local NAMI chapters can deliver education programs to communities.

Help Outside the United States


To find a suicide helpline outside the United States, visit:



At Georgetown Counseling and Wellness, we provide a compassionate space for you to tell your story and fully acknowledge your reality, utilizing proven treatment techniques. Our clinicians are trained to help you or your loved one navigate and overcome struggles with depression and anxiety and develop healthy and positive life changes. In light of COVID-19, we offer telehealth sessions over HIPAA-compliant video chat platforms. We also offer in-person sessions. If you want to know more about our services, please don’t hesitate to reach out. (512) 400-4247.


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