Suicide Prevention Awareness

Learning to recognize the warning signs of suicide, understanding risk and protective factors, and knowing how to respond can help save lives. Open conversations about mental health also reduce stigma and encourage individuals to seek support before reaching a crisis.

Recognizing Warning Signs

Suicidal thoughts are often accompanied by changes in behavior, mood or communication. Common warning signs include:

• Talking about feeling hopeless or being a burden to others
• Withdrawing from family, friends or usual activities
• Noticeable changes in sleep, mood or behavior
• Increased use of alcohol or other substances
• Giving away valued possessions or saying goodbye

Protective Factors

Protective factors can reduce suicide risk and promote resilience. These include:

• Strong social connections and supportive relationships
• Access to mental health care and community resources
• Healthy coping skills and problem-solving abilities
• A sense of purpose, hope and belonging

How You Can Help

If you are concerned about someone, take your concerns seriously. Listen without judgment, ask directly if they are thinking about suicide, encourage them to seek professional support and stay connected. You do not need to have all the answers. Showing empathy and helping someone access appropriate care can make a meaningful difference.

Suicide is preventable. By increasing awareness, reducing stigma and encouraging early intervention, we can help create communities and workplaces where individuals feel supported, valued and empowered to seek help when they need it.

Crisis Resources

Milwaukee County Mobile Crisis Team- (414) 257-7222
Milwaukee Mental Health Emergency Center- 1525 North 12th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53205, (414)257-6995 
Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988 Call or Text

Work Cited

Mental Health America. (n.d.). For families: Recognizing warning signs and how to cope.
Zero Suicide Institute. (2019, January). Assessing and managing suicide risk: Core competencies for health and behavioral health professionals working in outpatient settings [Training handbook]. Education Development Center.