Suicide is usually preventable. Eight out of 10 suicidal persons give some sign of their intentions, according to the National Mental Health Association. Learning to recognize and respond to these signs is the first step in getting help to the person at risk. Proper screening for potential physical or psychological causes of the suicidal thoughts/behavior is also important. Most people who commit suicide have a mental or emotional disorder – major depression is the most common. These disorders are treatable.

Warning signs of suicide are similar to those of depression. These may consist of statements, directly (“I wish I was dead”) or indirectly (“You won’t need to worry about me”) about death/suicide. Specific behavior to look out for includes social withdrawal, substance abuse, giving away personal belongings or saying goodbye. Recent findings indicate that mental health disorders that coexist with substance abuse are major risk factors for suicide. Significant changes in mood, appetite and sleeping patterns can also indicate a suicide risk.

Treatment for suicidal thoughts or behavior often includes medication to treat any accompanying disorder. Antidepressants are most commonly used, although they may take weeks to work. Successful treatment of a co-occurring disorder, such as depression, depends on the regular and appropriate use of prescribed medications.

Psychotherapy is also used to treat suicidal tendencies, and can include cognitive behavior therapy or interpersonal therapy. The most effective course of treatment is a combination of therapy and medication. In cases where medication cannot be taken or does not seem to work, electroconvulsive therapy is sometimes used.

Friends and family of a suicidal person may have to intervene in the event a loved one poses an immediate danger to himself or herself. This can include contacting a physician, mental health provider, hospital emergency room or emergency services (e.g., 911). Inpatient psychiatric care may sometimes be necessary.