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WARNING SIGNS

The behaviors listed below may be some of the signs that your loved one is thinking about suicide, especially if the behavior is new, has increased or related to a painful event or loss.  If you see these warning signs, get help as soon as possible.

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TALKING ABOUT:

  • Wanting to die or killing themselves

  • Feeling hopeless or having no reason to live

  • Feeling trapped or in unbearable pain

  • Being a burden to others

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FEELING:

  • Empty, hopeless, trapped, or having no reason to live

  • Extremely sad, more anxious, agitated, or full of rage

  • Unbearable emotional or physical pain

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CHANGE IN BEHAVIOR:

  • Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs

  • Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly

  • Sleeping too little or too much

  • Withdrawing or isolating themselves

  • Repetitive stressful events

  • Looking for a way to kill themselves, like searching online

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20

consecutive years with over 6,000 Veteran suicides

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31%

develop PTSD after returning from combat

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7X

higher suicide rate for veterans in the LGBTQ+ community 

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1 out of 10

Veterans have been diagnosed with substance abuse disorder

IF A LOVED ONE IS CONSIDERING SUICIDE

YOU CAN DO THE FOLLOWING:

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  • Be direct and talk openly with them

  • Listen and allow them to express their feelings

  • Get involved and make yourself available to them

  • Offer hope that alternatives are available

  • Take action to remove lethal means

  • Encourage them to seek help from a licensed professional

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DON'T:

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  • Be judgmental, debate them or lecture them

  • Dare them to do it

  • Act shocked - this will put distance between you

  • Allow them to swear you to secrecy

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