Help is Just a Heartbeat Away

Understanding Suicide

Learn the facts, understand the warning signs, and help break the stigma.

Recognizing the Signs

Sometimes the signs aren't obvious. Learn what to look for.

How to Help

You don't have to have all the answers to make a difference.

Words of Hope

A reminder that difficult times don't have to last forever.

Breaking the Silence

Open conversations can save lives. Let's start talking.

Word cloud highlighting common suicide warning signs, including hopelessness, isolation, withdrawal, mood changes, and feelings of being a burden.

Warning Signs in Adults

  • Talking about wanting to die or kill themselves
  • Feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
  • Feeling trapped or experiencing unbearable pain
  • Feeling like a burden to others
  • Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
  • Withdrawing from family and friends
  • Sleeping too little or too much
  • Showing extreme mood changes

Warning Signs in Teens

  • Talking about or showing signs of wanting to die
  • Expressing feelings of hopelessness or having no reason to live
  • Withdrawing from family, friends, and activities
  • Experiencing dramatic changes in mood or behavior
  • Showing increased irritability, anger, or agitation
  • Sleeping too much or having difficulty sleeping
  • Giving away important possessions
  • Engaging in risky or self-destructive behavior

Warning Signs in Veterans

  • Talking about wanting to die or suicide
  • Looking for ways to kill themselves
  • Expressing hopelessness or feeling trapped
  • Writing or talking about death
  • Engaging in self-destructive behavior
  • Giving away prized possessions or getting affairs in order
  • Experiencing persistent sadness or depression
  • Showing anxiety, agitation, sleeplessness, or mood swings
  • Showing rage, anger, or seeking revenge
  • Increasing alcohol or drug use
  • Withdrawing from family, friends, or activities
  • Neglecting personal appearance or welfare
  • Engaging in risky or impulsive behavior
  • Experiencing overwhelming guilt or shame
“You don’t need to be OK forever. You can be OK just for this minute. We can deal with the next minute when it gets here.”

— Tricia L.