Introduction
Signs and symptoms
Resources
Suicide risk in children and teens: Signs and symptoms
Learn about the range of signs that a child might be at risk of attempting suicide.
Key points
- Someone who may be considering suicide can display a range of behavioural and emotional signs. However, these can appear subtle and/or different from what might be expected.
- Behavioural signs include talking about suicide, dramatic changes in sleep habits, withdrawal from friends, family and enjoyable activities and difficulties in school.
- Emotional signs include feeling worthless and hopeless and experiencing mood changes. On the other hand, youth sometimes appear happy or uplifted in ways that can appear sudden or unexplained (especially if they have been depressed or struggling for some time). Sometimes, this can occur when the individual has made a plan or decision to end their life.
- If you notice that your child or teen might have difficulties with their emotions, talk to them about it and, if necessary, take steps to protect them.