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The warning signs
 of suicide
Suicide is rarely a spur of
the moment decision. In the days and hours before people kill themselves,
there are usually clues and warning signs. The strongest and most
disturbing signs are verbal such as "I can't go on" "Nothing matters
any more" or even "I'm thinking of ending it all." Such remarks should
always be taken seriously.
Other common warning signs include:
- Becoming depressed or withdrawn
- Behaving recklessly
- Suffering a major loss or life change
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- Abusing drugs or alcohol
- Marked change in behaviour,
attitudes or appearance
- Getting affairs in order and giving
away possessions
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The following list gives more examples,
all of which can be signs that somebody is contemplating suicide. Of
course, in most cases these situations do not lead to suicide. But,
generally, the more signs a person displays, the higher the risk of
suicide.
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Situations
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- Family history of suicide or violence
- Sexual or physical abuse
- Death of a close friend/family member
- Divorce or separation
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- Failing academic
performance, low exam results
- Job loss, problems at work
- Impending legal action
- Recent imprisonment or
upcoming release
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Behaviours |
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- Crying
- Fighting
- Breaking the law
- Impulsiveness
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- Writing about death and suicide
- Previous suicidal behaviour
- Extremes and changes of behaviour
- Self-mutilation
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| Physical Changes
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- Lack of energy
- Disturbed sleep patterns - sleeping too much or too little
- Loss of appetite
- Sudden weight gain or loss
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- Increase in minor illnesses
- Change of sexual interest
- Sudden change in appearance
- Lack of interest in appearance
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| Thoughts and
Emotions |
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- Thoughts of suicide
- Loneliness
- Lack of support from family and friends
- Rejection, feeling marginalized
- Deep sadness or guilt
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- Unable to see beyond a narrow focus
- Daydreaming
- Anxiety and stress
- Helplessness
- Loss of self-worth
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HELPLINES
France -
Suicide Ecoute
PARIS
Tel: 0033 1 45 39 4000
Website:
http://suicide.ecoute.free.fr
SOS Help - Confidential listening line in English
Address 43,
Boulogne, Cedex 92101
Tel: 0033 1 46 21 46 46 (3-11pm)
Website:
www.soshelpline.org
Fil Sante Jeunes PARIS
Tel: 0033 800 235 236
Website for young people:
www.filsantejeunes.com
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