Recognizing and Responding to the Warning Signs of Suicide: A Guide for Teachers and School Staff

Suicide attempts rarely occur without some warning. Teachers and other members of the school staff who see young people on a daily basis are in a unique position to distinguish "normal" adolescent behavior from indications that something is wrong. Signs that a young person may be in emotional pain or considering suicide include the following:

• Suddenly deteriorating academic performance. A young person who was conscientious about his or her school work and who is now neglecting assignments, cutting classes, or missing school altogether may be experiencing problems that can affect academic success, behavior, and health.
• Self-mutilation. Some young people resort to cutting their arms or legs with razor blades and other sharp objects to cope with emotional pain. Self-mutilation is an unmistakable sign that something is wrong.
• A fixation with death or violence. Young people may express this fixation through poetry, essays, doodling, or other artwork.
• Unhealthy peer relationships. A young person whose circle of friends dramatically changes for no apparent reason, who does not have friends, or who begins associating with young people known for substance abuse or other unhealthy behaviors may signal a change in his or her emotional life. These new friends and activities may drive away more positive friends.
• Volatile mood swings or a sudden change in personality. A student who becomes sullen, silent, and withdrawn