How do you Remember the Warning Signs of Suicide?
Here’s an Easy-to-Remember Mnemonic:
IS PATH WARM?
I
Ideation
IdeationSSubstance Abuse
Substance AbusePPurposelessness
PurposelessnessAAnxiety
AnxietyTTrapped
TrappedHHopelessness
HopelessnessWWithdrawal
WithdrawalAAnger
AngerRRecklessness
RecklessnessMMood Changes
Mood ChangesA person in acute risk for suicidal behavior most often will show:
Warning Signs of Acute Risk:
Threatening to hurt or kill him or herself, or talking of wanting to hurt or kill him/herself; and/or,
Looking for ways to kill him/herself by seeking access to firearms, available pills, or other means;
Talking or writing about death, dying or suicide, when these actions are out of the ordinary.
These might be remembered as expressed or communicated ideation. If observed, seek help as soon as possible by contacting a mental health professional or calling
Idaho Suicide Hotlines 1-800-564-2120
Additional Warning Signs:
Increased substance (alcohol or drug) use
No reason for living; no sense of purpose in life
Anxiety, agitation, unable to sleep or sleeping all the time
Feeling trapped - like there’s no way out
Hopelessness
Withdrawal from friends, family and society
Rage, uncontrolled anger, seeking revenge
Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities, seemingly without thinking
Dramatic mood changes.
Call a friend now!
Talk to a friend on how you are feeling.
TALK, SCREAM, BE HEARD!
Maddie was a beautiful, extraordinary 15 year old girl with big goals in her life. She lost her life to a completed suicide on February 18, 2014 due in a large part to “bullycide”. One of Maddie’s greatest gifts was in her ability to share her love, joy and kindness with others.
