Suicide Prevention

Recognizing the Signs. Responding with Care.

Get the facts, find support and learn how to recognize when someone needs help. This page shares warning signs, resources and real steps anyone can take for suicide prevention.

What the Data Tells Us About Suicide and Support

Sometimes, just knowing the numbers can change the way we understand what someone might be going through.

Suicide was the third leading cause of death for ages 15–24 in the U.S. in 2021. (CDC WISQARS)

Suicide was responsible for 49,316 deaths in 2023, which is about one death every 11 minutes.

According to the CDC, 20.4% of high school students seriously considered attempting suicide, and nearly 40% reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness

41% of LGBTQIA+ youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year, according to the Trevor Project

These numbers are more than statistics. They reflect real people. Friends, classmates, teammates and loved ones, who may be carrying more than they show. Many won’t say it out loud, but they still need support and someone to notice.

Behind the Statistics: Real Lives, Real Stress

Suicide remains one of the leading causes of death for youth and young adults. According to the CDC, suicide was the third leading cause of death for individuals ages 15 to 24 in 2021, and nearly 50,000 people across all ages died by suicide that year.

A CDC report found that emergency department visits for suspected suicide attempts increased significantly among youth, especially adolescent girls, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Kansas and Missouri continue to report higher-than-average suicide rates compared to national trends.

Young people today are navigating intense pressure from factors such as social media, school stress, identity, climate anxiety, racial injustice and so much more. Many are trying to cope without the mental wellness support they need.

When Adulthood Feels Heavier Than Expected

Adulthood brings its own kind of pressure. Maybe you’re balancing work, relationships, caregiving, bills or quietly carrying things nobody else sees. It can feel like you’re supposed to handle it all, but behind the scenes, many adults experience stress, burnout or moments of hopelessness. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, off your game or just not yourself lately, you’re far from alone.

Mental health challenges can show up in ways you don’t expect. Sometimes it’s hard to talk about what you’re feeling, especially if you think others depend on you or “have it worse.” You might notice changes in motivation, sleep, appetite or how connected you feel to others. It’s easy to think you should just push through, but reaching out for support is a strength, not a weakness.

Recognizing the Many Ways Suicidal Thoughts Can Show Up

Not everyone expresses emotional pain in the same way. Some people may openly talk about wanting to die or feeling hopeless. Others might quietly withdraw, act out, or behave in ways that don’t immediately raise concern. These changes are all invitations to check in with care.

Sometimes, the signs aren’t that obvious. A person who suddenly gives away belongings tied to their identity or passions, like a favorite instrument, artwork or collection, or starts saying things like “I won’t need this anymore,” could show signs of deeper emotional pain.

These kinds of shifts can be subtle, but they may signal that someone is planning an absence. Still, it’s important to remember that no single action confirms suicidal thoughts. What matters most is paying attention to changes in personality or behavior that feel out of the norm, and approaching those shifts with compassion and curiosity instead of assumptions. That connection can open the door to understanding and support.

With that in mind, here are some of the more common warning signs and risk factors to be aware of.

Common Warning Signs

Feeling like there’s no point to life
Talking about death, feeling worthless or like there’s no reason to live

Mood changes like anger, hopelessness or anxiety

Increased use of alcohol or drugs

Sleeping or eating much more or much less

Pulling away from friends and loved ones

Giving away belongings or saying goodbye

Risk Factors to Know

Previous suicide attempts

Family history of suicide or mental health challenges

Trauma, grief, bullying or discrimination

Substance use

Chronic illness or pain

Lack of support or connection

Misconceptions About Suicide

There’s a myth that suicidal thoughts only happen to people with diagnosed mental health conditions. In fact, more than half of the people who died by suicide in 2022 had no known diagnosis. Life stress, trauma and feeling overwhelmed can all play a role. It’s rarely just one thing.

This misunderstanding can end up delaying action. Many people who are struggling hide it well or don’t yet have a formal diagnosis. That’s why it’s so important to trust your gut and pay attention when something feels off, especially if someone you care about is showing signs that don’t match how they usually act. Knowing the facts helps families and caregivers take meaningful, compassionate steps toward support, even before there’s a confirmed diagnosis or clinical label.

Steps You Can Take

There are many ways to help when it comes to suicide prevention. Helping can take different forms, like listening without judgment or simply showing up for someone. Small actions matter more than you think. Here are some examples:

If you’re a parent or caregiver:

Create space for open, judgment-free conversations

Learn the signs and ask directly if you’re concerned

Reassure your child or teen that they matter and are not alone

Encourage counseling and support; you don’t have to wait for a crisis

If you’re looking for support for yourself:

Your feelings are valid. You are not broken and you are not alone

Talk to someone you trust: a friend, family member, therapist or teacher

Use coping tools like breathing exercises, journaling, music or art

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s okay to seek support right away

Helpful Resources

Self-Assessments & Early Warning Signs

Take our short quiz to see if your child or teen may be experiencing depression

Take a free, anonymous screening for depression, anxiety or stress. Get connected to resources based on your results.
Watch this video and keep reading below for education about suicidal ideation warning signs & how to help someone in crisis.

Coping Tools