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Warning Signs of Suicide in Adults - Topic Overview

The following warning signs may be present in adults who have a high risk for suicide:

Depression or other mental health condition, such as severe anxiety, bipolar disorder (manic-depressive illness), or schizophrenia
Depression followed by sudden cheerfulness and contentment, which may mean the person has made a decision to finalize a suicide plan
A previous suicide attempt
Alcohol or substance abuse
Preoccupation with death in conversations
Giving away personal possessions

Factors that may increase the risk of suicide include having:

A family member who has committed suicide.
A family history of depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia.
A history of physical or sexual abuse.
Diagnosis of a serious medical illness.
Failing relationships.
A divorce.
A recent life change, such as a death of a spouse or other member of the family, marriage, break-up of a marriage, the birth of a child, a job loss, a job promotion or demotion, or legal problems.

FDA Advisory. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an advisory on antidepressant medicines and the risk of suicide. The FDA does not recommend that people stop using these medicines. Instead, a person taking antidepressants should be watched for warning signs of suicide. This is especially important at the beginning of treatment or when doses are changed.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: November 29, 2010

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.