Clues to Suicidal Thought Clues to Suicidal Thought Changes in personality, habits or attitudes Depression, sleep and appetite disruption, energy loss Impaired concentration or thinking Social withdrawl and isolation from friends and family Decline in academic performance Use of drugs and/or alcohol Deterioration and neglect of personal habits and hygiene Making preparations for death Less concern for own saftey and welfare Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness How You Can Help Listen and hear. Do not be judgemental or moralizing Be sensitive and supportive to person's distress Do not be afraid to talk about suicide or use the word Take any suicidal statement/thoughts seriously, even if said in a calm voice. All threats and attempts should be taken seriously. Act definitively. Tell others even if this means breaking a confidence. Stay with the person until help arrives. If unsure what to do, do what will ensure the person's safety. Back to Reports & Articles Back to Family Support Network ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Susan Lieberman is in private practice in North York as a family therapist and public speaker. For more information, Call: (416) 512-6356. or Email: susanl@familysupport.net