Suicide Warning Signs

Suicide Prevention Lifeline 988: Call 988 or go to 988 Lifeline website.

If you are concerned that you or a friend are at risk for suicide, reach out to the Owens Counseling Services:

• Making suicide threats
• Substance abuse
• Giving away possessions
• Engaging in risk-taking behaviors
• Self-harm (cutting, burning, etc.)
• Frequently talking about death
• Drastic changes in mood and behavior
• Feeling like a burden to others
• Acquiring the means for suicide (guns, drugs, rope, etc.)
• Talking about a specific plan regarding how they might harm themselves
• Aggressiveness and irritability
• Isolating self, social withdrawal
• Persistent feelings of hopelessness, no hope for the future
• Persistent depression, sadness, lack of energy
• Major changes in sleeping or eating habits
• Making final arrangements (writing a will, etc.)

Protective Factors

• Stay connected with others.
• Learn new coping skills for stress, depression or anxiety.
• Make sure to get enough sleep—try for seven or more hours each night.
• Proper nutrition and exercise boost the body’s natural stress-relief system.
• Make sure to take care of any health needs you may have.
• Get outside! Research shows that exposure to natural vitamin D (sunshine) boosts our mood.
• Be kind to yourself, everybody makes mistakes and has bad days.
• Reach out if you are struggling—free and confidential services are available for Owens students.