World Suicide Prevention Day: Recognising the Signs, Saving Lives

Today, on World Suicide Prevention Day, we are reminded of the importance of awareness, compassion, and action. It’s a day that encourages us to unite as a global community and shine a light on the darkness that too many people silently endure. Behind every story of someone struggling, there are often unspoken symptoms that tell the tale before it’s too late. These symptoms are often wrapped in silence, fear, and stigma, but recognizing them can save lives.

Depression, in many ways, is the unseen force behind countless struggles, and it can be a major risk factor for suicide. The symptoms of major depression often feel overwhelming, casting a long shadow over daily life. It’s crucial to understand that depression doesn’t always look the same in everyone, but the core signs are often there, waiting to be noticed.

1. Changes in Mood

One of the earliest and most telling signs of depression is a persistent change in mood. Someone may seem down, tearful, irritable, or simply speak of feeling empty. If this mood lingers day after day, it’s more than just a “bad day.” It’s a signal that something deeper may be going on. Today, let’s remember to check in with our loved ones—not just when they’re happy, but especially when they seem distant or sad. A small gesture of asking, “How are you, really?” can make all the difference.

2. Lack of Pleasure

When someone loses the ability to enjoy the things that once brought them joy, it’s often a sign that depression is taking hold. Whether it’s a favourite hobby, spending time with loved ones, or simply finding pleasure in life’s small moments—when these things become hollow, it’s time to pay attention. On this World Suicide Prevention Day, let’s remember to look beyond the surface and notice when those around us seem to lose touch with what once made them smile.

3. Changes in Eating Patterns

Depression can disrupt the most basic aspects of our daily lives, including how we eat. Someone may begin to eat much more or much less than usual, gaining or losing significant weight without a clear explanation. While these changes may seem subtle, they are often silent cries for help. As we reflect on suicide prevention today, we are reminded that even small changes in behaviour can point to a deeper struggle.

4. Changes in Sleeping Patterns

Whether it’s sleepless nights or constant fatigue, depression wreaks havoc on sleep. Those who suffer may find themselves lying awake for hours, unable to rest, or they may sleep far more than usual, using sleep as an escape. Recognising these changes is key to offering support. A simple conversation about sleep patterns could open the door to discussing deeper emotional struggles.

5. Changes in Activity Level and Movement

Depression can slow a person down physically, making everyday tasks feel like climbing a mountain. Or, it can manifest as restless agitation, an inability to sit still or focus. These changes in movement may be visible to those around them, even if they don’t always speak about how they’re feeling. On this World Suicide Prevention Day, let’s commit to noticing the physical signs that may indicate inner turmoil.

6. Lack of Energy

Excessive tiredness and a lack of energy can make even the simplest of tasks feel insurmountable for someone dealing with depression. What once seemed effortless—like getting out of bed, cooking, or going to work—now takes overwhelming effort. Recognising this lack of energy in someone’s life is an opportunity to offer support and gently remind them that they are not alone in their struggle.

7. Changes in Perception of Self

Depression often comes with a cruel internal dialogue—a voice that whispers persistent feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or inadequacy. Someone struggling with these thoughts may begin to doubt their own value, feeling as though they are a burden or not deserving of help. On this day of awareness, let’s remember to remind our friends and family of their worth, even if they are unable to see it in themselves.

8. Changes in Focus

Depression affects concentration and decision-making, leaving someone feeling scattered, forgetful, and unable to focus. This lack of mental clarity can make everyday tasks feel like insurmountable challenges. Offering patience and understanding to someone who is struggling with these symptoms can provide the reassurance they need to take the next step towards seeking help.

9. Lack of Future

One of the most serious symptoms of depression is the loss of hope—a feeling that the future is bleak or that there is no future at all. Thoughts of hopelessness, death, or suicide begin to surface. These thoughts may be expressed verbally or hidden beneath a façade, but they are always dangerous. On World Suicide Prevention Day, it’s crucial to remind people that there is a future, that hope exists, and that help is available. Even in the darkest moments, life is worth fighting for.

A Day for Action and Compassion

World Suicide Prevention Day isn’t just about recognising the symptoms of depression—it’s about taking action. It’s about checking in with loved ones, listening without judgment, and offering support in the form of a simple conversation, a gesture of kindness, or guiding someone to professional help.

If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t wait for the perfect moment to reach out—do it today. There is no wrong time to offer a hand or say, “I’m here.” Today is a reminder that even the smallest efforts can make the biggest difference.

On this World Suicide Prevention Day, let’s stand together in awareness, compassion, and in action. We might not always have the right words, but just being there—present and open—can save a life.