You can make a difference!
Suicide is a serious public health concern, but it is preventable. Everyone can play a role by recognizing warning signs, offering support, and connecting people to help.
Understanding Suicide Risk:
Suicidal thoughts and behaviors are complex, and there is no single cause. People of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities can be affected.
Factors That May Increase Risk:
- Previous suicide attempts
- Depression or other mental health conditions
- Social isolation or loneliness
- Financial stress or job loss
- Relationship or family difficulties
- Bullying or discrimination
- Access to lethal means
Warning Signs
A person may be struggling if they:
- Talk about wanting to die or end their life
- Express feelings of hopelessness
- Feel like a burden to others
- Withdraw from friends, family, or activities
- Increase alcohol or drug use
- Show significant changes in mood, sleep, or behavior
- Experience overwhelming emotional pain or distress
Suicide Prevention in People with Disabilities
People with disabilities experience depression at higher rates than the general population. Because symptoms of depression often overlap with disability-related challenges, warning signs may be missed or mistaken for changes related to a person’s disability.
Mental health challenges may appear differently in people with disabilities and can sometimes be mistaken for disability-related symptoms. Signs may include:
- Increased fatigue, pain, or other physical complaints
- Withdrawal from family, friends, or activities once enjoyed
- Feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, worthlessness, or being a burden
- Irritability, anger, aggression, or other behavioral changes
- Changes in sleep, appetite, or energy levels
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
- Reduced motivation or participation in daily activities
- Worsening of existing health conditions or disability-related symptoms (such as chronic pain, seizures, or other ongoing symptoms)
- Increased social isolation or loss of interest in previously meaningful activities
How You Can Help
- Listen. Support. Connect.
- Take warning signs seriously.
- Listen without judgment.
- Encourage professional support.
- Stay connected and follow up.
- Help connect the person with a trusted family member, healthcare provider, counselor, or crisis service.
Protective Factors:
- Strong family and social support.
- A sense of connection and belonging.
- Healthy coping and problem-solving skills.
- Access to healthcare and mental health services.
- Meaningful activities and positive relationships.
In a Crisis
If someone is in immediate danger of harming themselves or others, call 911.
You can also contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. Support is available 24/7 and is free and confidential.
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