By the time you are done reading this article, approximately 4 people will have committed suicide. Take a minute to consider that!

Every 40 seconds, one person in the world commits suicide. That’s an alarming and heartbreaking statistic. What makes it heartbreaking is that suicide is 100% avoidable. People who struggle with suicidal thoughts feel like there is no solution to their problems or no relief for their seemingly unending pain. Right at the outset, we want to say that there is always a solution or a way out.

Identifying suicidal tendencies isn’t easy but with some help, we can all be better equipped at recognizing the signs and helping people before it is too late. We’ve put together a list of red flags that you can look out for in people around you.

1.Excessive sadness or moodiness

Long-lasting sadness and extreme mood swings are symptoms of depression. If you know someone struggling with depression, you need to reach out to them and enable them to seek help.

2. Sudden calmness

When someone who battles depression or moodiness constantly is suddenly unusually calm, it could be a sign that the person has decided to end their life.

3.Withdrawal

Choosing to avoid friends or social activities for prolonged periods or isolating oneself is also a symptom of depression. Such individuals tend to lose interest in activities they previously enjoyed engaging in.

4. Change in personality or appearance

A person who is considering suicide might exhibit drastic changes in their attitude and behavior. They may also become less concerned about their outward appearance.

5. Self-harmful behavior

Any behavior such as reckless driving or an alarming increase in alcohol or drug intake may indicate that a person no longer values his or her life. Take note of this behavioral change in people and help them get the right resources they need to overcome this struggle.

6. Sudden trauma or life crisis

A major life crisis could trigger an attempt of suicide. Crises like the loss of a loved one, divorce, diagnosis of a major illness, loss of a job, or serious financial problems could be instant triggers.

7. Making Preparations

A person who is considering suicide will often put their personal affairs in order. This may include visiting family and close friends, giving away possessions, and making a will.

If someone you know is displaying some of these signs, it is important for you to encourage them to get the right kind of help.

We have a program called Emotional Engineering that is designed to help individuals get emotionally healthy.

Click here to know more.