Recognising The Warning Signs of Suicide

Immediate Warning Signs (Seek Help Immediately)

• Direct verbal threats: “I want to end it all,” “I can’t go on,” or “You’d be better off without me”
• Specific suicide plans: Research into methods, acquiring means, or discussing detailed plans
• Sudden mood improvement after depression: This can indicate they’ve made a decision and feel “relief”
• Giving away possessions: Distributing personal items or settling affairs unexpectedly
• Saying goodbye: Unusual farewells or messages that seem final

Behavioural Warning Signs

• Withdrawal from relationships: Isolating from family, friends, and social activities
• Dramatic mood swings: Extreme highs and lows within short periods
• Sleep pattern changes: Insomnia or sleeping excessively
• Substance abuse increase: Using alcohol or drugs more frequently
• Risk-taking behaviours: Engaging in dangerous activities with apparent disregard for safety
• Neglecting personal care: Poor hygiene, not eating, or abandoning responsibilities

Emotional & Mental Warning Signs

• Overwhelming hopelessness: Expressing that problems will never improve
• Intense emotional pain: Describing unbearable psychological suffering
• Feeling trapped: Believing there’s no way out of their situation
• Extreme guilt or shame: Self-blame and worthlessness feelings
• Anxiety and agitation: Restlessness, irritability, or panic attacks

 

How to Support Someone with Suicidal Thoughts

1. Take Every Warning Sign Seriously

Never dismiss concerning statements as “attention-seeking” or assume someone is “just talking.” Trust your instincts – if you’re worried, take action.

2. Listen Without Judgment

• Be fully present: Put away distractions and focus completely on them
• Ask direct questions: “Are you thinking about hurting yourself?” or “Are you considering suicide?”
• Validate their feelings: “This sounds incredibly difficult” rather than “Things aren’t that bad”
• Avoid minimizing: Don’t say “You have so much to live for” or “Think positive”

3. Create a Safety Plan Together

• Remove or secure potentially harmful items (medications, weapons, sharp objects)
• Identify trusted people they can contact during crisis moments
• Develop coping strategies for when suicidal thoughts intensify
• Plan activities that provide comfort and distraction

4. Encourage Professional Help

• Offer to help them find a mental health professional
• Suggest accompanying them to appointments
• Research treatment options and support groups together
• Remind them that seeking help shows strength, not weakness

5. Stay Connected and Follow Up

• • Check in regularly through calls, texts, or visits
  • Remember important dates (anniversaries of losses, stressful events)
  • Include them in social activities without being overwhelming
  • Continue support even after the immediate crisis passes

 

What Not to Do When Supporting Someone in Crisis

Avoid These Common Mistakes:

• • Don’t promise to keep suicidal plans secret: Professional help is necessary
  • Don’t leave them alone if you believe they’re in immediate danger
  • Don’t argue about whether suicide is right or wrong: Focus on their pain instead
  • Don’t act shocked or judgmental: Remain calm and supportive
  • Don’t try to “fix” everything: Sometimes listening is more valuable than solving

When to Seek Immediate Professional Help

Contact emergency services (10177) or go to the nearest hospital emergency room if someone:

• Has a specific suicide plan and means to carry it out
• Is actively harming themselves
• Is under the influence of drugs or alcohol and expressing suicidal thoughts
• Shows signs of psychosis or severe mental health crisis
• Has made a suicide attempt

 

Supporting Yourself as a Caregiver

Caring for someone in crisis is emotionally demanding:

• Seek your own support: Talk to friends, family, or a counsellor
• Set realistic boundaries: You cannot be available 24/7
• Practice self-care: Maintain your physical and mental health
• Join support groups: Connect with others in similar situations
• Remember your limits: You cannot single-handedly save someone

Building Long-Term Resilience

Help your loved one develop:

• Strong social connections: Meaningful relationships provide protective factors
• Healthy coping skills: Exercise, meditation, creative outlets, or hobbies
• Purpose and meaning: Volunteering, career goals, or personal passions
• Professional support network: Therapists, psychiatrists, or support groups
• Crisis management tools: Apps, hotlines, or emergency contacts readily available

Resources & Support Lines

South Africa Crisis Support:

• Suicide Crisis Line: 0800 567 567 (24/7, toll-free)
• SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group): 0800 70 80 90
• Emergency Services: 10177
• Lifeline: 0861 322 322

Online Resources:

• SADAG website: www.sadag.org
• Mental Health Information Centre: www.mentalhealthsa.co.za

 

Moving Forward with Hope

Recovery from suicidal thoughts is possible with proper support, professional help, and time. Your presence, understanding, and commitment to their wellbeing can make an enormous difference in their journey toward healing.

Remember that supporting someone through suicidal thoughts requires patience, compassion, and often professional guidance. While you cannot control the outcome, your caring response provides them with hope and connection during their darkest moments.

If you’re reading this because you’re concerned about someone, thank you for caring enough to seek information. Your love and support matter more than you know.