Clear Psychiatry

Suicide: signs, help, and prevention

Suicide is a major public health concern that affects individuals, families, and entire communities. On World Suicide Prevention Day, we want to help you understand what suicidal behaviour looks like, how to support someone who might be struggling, and what help is available.

No matter what you or a loved one are going through, support is available, and you deserve it.

Suicidal thoughts are not signs of weakness or failure. They are signs of immense pain, often combined with feeling overwhelmed, trapped, or hopeless. Reaching out for help is a brave and important step.

Counselor holding client's hands during a therapeutic session, showing empathy and professional care

What is suicide?

Suicide is the act of intentionally ending one's own life. Suicidal thoughts can range from fleeting distress to persistent, overwhelming urges. All deserve attention and support.

What are signs that a person might be suicidal?

People experiencing suicidal thoughts may show emotional, verbal, or behavioural signs. Not everyone will show all of these, but common warning signs include:

Talking about suicide or death:

  • Talking about wanting to die or kill themselves
  • Talking about having no reason to live
  • Talking about feeling empty, hopeless, or trapped
  • Talking about being a burden
  • Talking about death frequently
     

Changes in behaviour:

  • Making a plan or looking for ways to end their life
  • Withdrawing from loved ones
  • Giving away treasured possessions
  • Putting affairs in order (e.g. writing a will)
  • Engaging in risky behaviour, such as driving dangerously
  • Suddenly seeming calm or relieved after a period of distress
     

Physical or emotional signs

  • Feeling unbearable physical or emotional pain
  • Intense guilt or shame
  • Severe anxiety, agitation, or insomnia

If you notice these signs, it’s important to take them seriously.

Diverse young adult patient in contemplative moment during therapy session, expressing emotional openness and thoughtfulness

Who is at higher risk for suicide?

Anyone can experience suicidal thoughts, but certain factors increase risk:

  • Mental health disorders, such as depression
  • Trauma or adverse childhood experiences
  • Alcohol or substance use disorders
  • Chronic pain or illness
  • A family history of suicide
  • Exposure to others' suicidal behaviour
  • Recent release from jail
  • Previous suicide attempts
  • Social isolation and loneliness
  • Recent significant loss (bereavement, relationship breakdown, job loss)
  • Financial difficulties
  • Alcohol or substance intoxication at the time of crisis
  • Experiences of domestic abuse
  • Feelings of immense guilt/shame

Risk factors do not mean someone will attempt suicide, but they highlight when extra support might be needed.

Elderly woman's hand held gently by caregiver's hand in bright clinic waiting room showing compassionate support

What can help protect people from suicide?

Suicide is largely preventable, and many contributing factors can be addressed.

A range of protective factors can also help prevent it. These include:

  • Social connectedness
  • Access to care
  • Sense of purpose
  • Positive relationships
  • Effective coping and problem-solving skills
  • Reasons for living (such as family, friends, and pets)
  • Strong sense of cultural identity
  • Removing access to lethal means of suicide
  • Cultural, religious, or moral objections to suicide
Volunteer and community member in conversation sharing resource information, showing meaningful human connection and support

What to do if you're feeling suicidal

It's essential to seek help as soon as possible if you are feeling suicidal. 

If you are in immediate danger:

  • Move away from anything that could cause harm.
  • Call 999 or attend A&E.
     

If you are not in immediate danger:

  • Tell someone how you're feeling.
  • Contact a listening service, like Samaritans on 116 123, or text SHOUT to 85258.
  • See your GP or a mental health specialist.
  • Follow a crisis plan if you have one.
  • Consider talking therapies like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, which can help you manage distress and build coping skills.
     
Client sitting on therapy couch during session with therapist visible across from them in calm office

How to help someone who might be suicidal

Supporting someone who is struggling can feel frightening, but your presence can make a meaningful difference. Openness, empathy, and timely support can save lives.

Recognise signs of distress - Trust your instincts. If something feels “off,” it’s okay to check in.

Listen without judgement - Let them speak freely. You don’t need to fix the problem. Just being present helps reduce shame and isolation.

Asking simple, direct questions - Asking, "Are you feeling suicidal?" does not make someone more likely to act on their thoughts. It shows you care and helps them to be honest about how they're feeling.

Encourage professional support - Help them contact a GP, mental health specialist, or crisis service. Offer to sit with them while they make the call.

Help them stay safe - Support them in creating a safety plan, removing means of harm, and staying connected to others.

Young person holding smartphone showing supportive digital interface with warm, natural lighting in safe home environment

Would you like monthly mental health insights?

Our free newsletter offers clinically informed guidance on ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, and wellbeing, written by our specialist team.

To sign up, email [email protected]