Suicide Prevention, 15 Signs to Watch

Turning Awareness into Action: Preventing Death by Suicide

Suicide prevention and mental health awareness shine a light on the profound internal struggles so many of us face in silence.

Over the last few years, OhioGuidestone has proactively turned awareness into action by developing targeted programs focused on prevention, early intervention, education, and immediate crisis support.

What We Now Know

“Research continues to show how important it is to ask directly and compassionately about suicidal thoughts,” said Dr. Kathleen Kern, Chief Clinical Officer at OhioGuidestone. “Many people struggling with suicide risk may not bring it up on their own, but they often respond honestly when someone creates a safe, nonjudgmental space to talk. The earlier we recognize emotional pain and connect people to support, the more opportunities we have to strengthen hope, build safety, and help individuals through moments of crisis.” 

Stigma and Silence

Shame, stigma, and fear of judgment often prevent people from talking openly about suicidal thoughts. “Creating a safe space for someone to speak about emotional pain can be a critical first step toward support and safety,” Kern said. “When suicidal thoughts remain hidden, hopelessness and isolation can intensify. Open, compassionate conversations create opportunities to reduce risk, strengthen connection, and help individuals access care before a crisis escalates.”  

Know the Warning Signs

People considering suicide do not always show obvious signs, but changes in mood, behavior, or functioning can signal that someone is struggling emotionally and may need support. Warning signs should always be taken seriously, especially when several occur together or represent a significant change from the person’s usual behavior. 

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. 

Behavioral Changes	Emotional Signs	Physical & Social Signs
Talking about death or suicide	Feelings of hopelessness	Withdrawing from family/friends
Seeking means	Feeling like a burden	Persistent Exhaustion
Giving away prized possessions	Strong anger or mood swings	Changes in eating or sleeping
Increased drug/alcohol use	Feeling trapped	Loss of interest in hobbies
Taking unnecessary risks	Sudden, unexplained calmness, after a period of severe emotional distress	Chronic physical pain

Paying Attention and Asking Directly 

Warning signs are most meaningful when they reflect a noticeable change in a person’s usual mood, behavior, relationships, or ability to function. Emotional distress can appear differently from person to person, especially during periods of stress, loss, conflict, humiliation, or other overwhelming life events. 

“The most important thing is not memorizing a list of warning signs,” Kern said. “It is noticing when something feels different and being willing to check in from a place of care and concern.” 

Starting with a caring observation such as, “I’ve noticed you don’t seem like yourself lately, and I care about you,” can help open the door to conversation. If concerns continue or warning signs increase, Kern encourages loved ones to ask directly about suicide in a calm, compassionate, and nonjudgmental way. “It is okay to ask, ‘Are you thinking about suicide?’” she said. “You are not putting the idea into someone’s head by asking. If a person is struggling with suicidal thoughts, asking directly can create an opportunity for connection, support, and safety before the crisis deepens.” 

Recognize that Pain Limits Problem Solving 

When someone is considering suicide, their ability to problem-solve is often compromised. The intensity of painful emotions such as sadness, grief, shame, humiliation, fear, or overwhelming stress can make it difficult to see solutions or believe that things can improve. A person may also struggle to recognize support, connect with the positive parts of their life, or access their reasons for living. Problems can begin to feel permanent and unsolvable, and it may become difficult to believe that others would care or be able to help. This is why asking directly and responding with compassion are so important. 

Responding with Compassion and Support 

When someone shares thoughts of suicide, the response they receive matters. “If someone trusts you enough to tell you they are thinking about suicide, it is important to recognize the courage that takes,” Kern said. “Let them know you are glad they told you, that they are not alone, and that help is available. You do not need to have all the answers or know exactly how to manage suicide risk on your own. What matters most is responding with compassion, listening without judgment, and helping connect the person to support, including crisis resources like the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.” 

Time, Distance, and Safety

Dr. Kern explained that suicidal crises are often temporary, even when the emotional pain feels overwhelming in the moment. “Research shows that creating time and distance between a suicidal impulse and the ability to act on it can save lives,” she said. “Many people who survive a suicidal crisis go on to recover and are grateful they had the chance to receive support and find another path forward.” 

She noted that reducing access to lethal means is one of the most effective evidence-based suicide prevention strategies. “Simple safety measures such as securely storing firearms, limiting access to large quantities of medication, or involving trusted supports during periods of crisis can create critical time for the intensity of the moment to pass,” Dr. Kern said. “That time can make space for connection, intervention, and hope.” 

Building Resilience 

Learning that setbacks, failures, and painful experiences can be survived, and that emotions and circumstances can change over time, helps build resilience and reduce hopelessness during difficult moments. “Teaching people how to cope with emotional pain, ask for help, and stay connected during difficult times can strengthen resilience long before someone reaches a crisis point,” Kern said. 

Early education and open conversation help create a culture where mental health is taken seriously, emotional struggles can be discussed without shame, and seeking support is encouraged. 

Prevention through Education

The Signs of Suicide Prevention Program

OhioGuidestone is proactively reaching students through the Signs of Suicide (SOS) Prevention Program. This school-based initiative is designed to be completed in a single class period, yet its impact can last a lifetime. The program uses a dual-strategy approach:

• Educational Curriculum: Raising awareness and de-stigmatizing the conversation around youth depression.
• Brief Screening: Identifying students who may already be experiencing symptoms of self-harm or depression.

Learning to ACT®

We teach middle and high school students the ACT® model, a simple but life-saving acronym that provides clear steps for when they or a friend are struggling:

1. Acknowledge: Identify the signs of depression or suicide.
2. Care: Show your friend they are not alone and that you care.
3. Tell: Inform a trusted adult immediately.

If you are concerned about a loved one, please take these indicators seriously:

Crisis Help

MRSS

OhioGuidestone’s Mobile Response and Stabilization Services (MRSS) offer free, rapid-response behavioral health support to youth in crisis. Children and young adults aged 20 and under who are experiencing significant mental, emotional, or behavioral distress that affects their ability to function at home, school, or in the community can call 988 to reach a trained team of qualified support professionals who respond within 60 minutes to de-escalate the situation, ensure safety, and provide immediate support.

Walk-in Clinics

OhioGuidestone’s ReadyCare Walk-in Clinics for Behavioral Health provide access to crisis intervention, counseling, medication for mental health and substance use, and assessments, just by walking in the door. No appointment or referral is required.

Ending the Stigma

Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Our goal at OhioGuidestone is to lead our community toward a healthier, brighter future where no one feels they have to struggle in isolation. For more insight on erasing the stigma around mental health, check out the Let’s Talk About It with OhioGuidestone podcast.

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