Suicide Warning Tool: Is path warm?
People sometimes contemplate suicide because of overwhelming things in their life, depression, loss, or for many other reasons. But being aware of some signs and symptoms can help to prevent suicide. Often, preventing a loved one from suicide can depend on the ability of individuals in their life to recognize distress and risky behaviors. Recently, the American Association of Suicidology developed a simple tool that is available for everyone to use to remember the warning signs of suicide. This helpful tool is called “IS PATH WARM” and outlines the key points to remember:
I – Ideation (suicidal thoughts)
S – Substance Abuse
P – Purposelessness
A – Anxiety
T – Trapped
H – Hopelessness/Helplessness
W – Withdrawal
A – Anger
R – Recklessness
M – Mood changes
The American Association of Suicidology also indicated that other signs and behaviors to be aware of including:
- Direct and indirect verbal expressions: “I don’t want to live anymore”, “there is nothing to live for anymore”, “people will be better off without me”
- Dramatic changes in mood
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Agitation
- Increase in drug and alcohol use
- Risk taking behavior
- Aggressive, impulsive and/or violent acts
- Expressions of hopelessness and purposelessness
- Lack of self care or outright neglect of self
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Feeling tired most of the time
- Gaining or losing a significant amount of weight
- Changes in eating and sleeping pattern
- Withdrawal from family, friends, and interests
- Giving away prize possessions and/or making a will; tidying up personal affairs; writing notes; making notes on belongings
- Reconnecting with old friends and extended family as if to say goodbye
- Previous unresolved or recent suicide attempt(s)
- Unusual happiness and peace after an intense period of turmoil and displaying the above characteristics
If a loved one is showing these symptoms, it is important to get help from a trustworthy source and to let other loved ones know as soon as possible. Doing so could prevent suicide and help the loved one find peace and solace and heal from suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
Source: yourlifecounts.org