CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Chambana Today) — In time for the holidays, local mental health and crisis-response agencies are reminding families to recognize the warning signs of suicide in young people. The flyer, titled “Suicide Warning Signs for Youth,” emphasizes that early action can save lives, urging adults to look for significant changes in behavior, mood, and social engagement.
Among the most serious red flags are youth talking about or making plans for suicide, expressing hopelessness about the future, or showing overwhelming emotional pain or distress. The guidance also notes that sudden behavioral changes can be especially concerning when paired with these signs. Those include withdrawing from friends, shifts in sleep patterns, unusual anger or hostility, or increased agitation and irritability.
The materials stress that help is always available. Anyone concerned about a young person’s safety is encouraged to call or text 988, or use the online chat at 988lifeline.org, which connects individuals with trained crisis counselors.
Agencies hope the information will empower families, educators, and peers to intervene early and direct young people to appropriate support before a crisis escalates.