In order to prevent suicide, it is important to be aware of the warning signs of suicidal thoughts and feelings.
Take any suicidal talk or behavior seriously. It's not just a warning sign that the person is thinking about suicide - it's a cry for help.
| Suicide Warning Signs from Helpguide.org | |
|---|---|
| Talking about suicide | Any talk about suicide, dying, or self-harm. Includes statements such as "I wish I hadn't been born," "If I see you again...," "I want out" and "I'd be better off dead." |
| Seeking out lethal means | Looking for ways to commit suicide. Seeking access to guns, pills, knives, or other objects that could be used in a suicide attempt. |
| Preoccupation with death | Unusual focus on death, dying or violence. Writing poems or stories about death. |
| No hope for the future | Feelings of helplessness, hopelessness and being trapped ("There's no way out"). Belief that things will never get better or change. |
| Self-loathing, self-hatred | Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, shame and self-hatred. Feeling like a burden ("Everyone would be better off without me"). |
| Getting affairs in order | Making out a will. Giving away prized possessions. Making arrangements for family members. |
| Saying goodbye | Unusual or unexpected visits or calls to family and friends. Saying goodbye to people as if they won't be seen again. |
| Withdrawing from others | Withdrawing from friends and family. Increasing social isolation. Desire to be left alone. |
| Self-destructive behavior | Increased alcohol or drug use, reckless driving or unsafe sex. Taking unnecessary risks as if they have a "death wish." |
| Sudden sense of calm | A sudden sense of calm and happiness after being extremely depressed can mean that the person has made a decision to commit suicide. |
If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. This number can be dialed from anywhere in the United States 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
You can also contact the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) at 1-800-755-7002. The EAP provides all CBP employees and their eligible family members with up to 12 free face-to-face counseling sessions with a licensed counselor. All services provided by the EAP are free of charge and completely confidential.
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