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Mental health experts say to watch for these signs in loved ones

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msnbc.com

updated 8:58 a.m. ET Nov. 9, 2009
ELKHART, Ind.—

The National Mental Information Center recommends seeking help as soon as possible by contacting a mental health expert or calling the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK if you or someone you know exhibits any of these signs:

  • Threatening to hurt or kill oneself or talking about wanting to hurt or kill oneself.
  • Looking for ways to kill oneself by seeking access to guns, pills or other means.
  • Talking or writing about death, dying or suicide when these actions are out of ordinary for the person.
  • Feeling hopeless.
  • Feeling rage or uncontrolled anger or feeling a need to seek revenge.
  • Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities, seemingly without thinking.
  • Feeling trapped, or like there’s no way out of a situation.
  • Increasing alcohol or drug use.
  • Withdrawing from friends, family and society.
  • Feeling anxious, agitated or unable to sleep. Or, conversely, sleeping all the time.
  • Experiencing dramatic mood changes.
  • Seeing no reason for living or having no sense of purpose of life.
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