How to Recognize Both and What to Do
NOTE: Suicide prevention starts with understanding.
This is part 3 of our Suicide Prevention Learning Series. Over this four-part educational series from Dauphin County ASPIRE, you’ll learn to recognize warning signs, respond with compassion, and feel more confident supporting someone who may be struggling.
In the previous article, we explored common myths that keep people from starting important conversations. Now we’ll look at one of the most important distinctions in suicide prevention: the difference between a warning sign and a risk factor.
| In this article, you’ll learn: The difference between warning signs and risk factors Examples of each Questions to ask when you’re concerned When someone may need immediate support |
Understanding the Difference
When we talk about suicide prevention, two phrases often come up: warning signs and risk factors.
They’re connected, but they don’t mean the same thing.
Understanding the difference can help us recognize when someone may need more support and when someone may need immediate help.
What Is a Risk Factor?
A risk factor is a broader vulnerability. It may be part of a person’s history, health, family experience, environment, or current life circumstances.
| Risk Factors May Include: A previous suicide attempt Family history of suicide or mental health challenges Substance use Trauma or abuse Major loss Chronic pain or illness Financial stress Relationship stress Housing instability Social isolation Access to something that could be used for harm during a crisis |
A risk factor does not automatically mean someone is in immediate danger.
But risk factors can help us understand when someone may need more connection, care, and support around them.
What Is a Warning Sign?
A warning sign is different.
A warning sign is something we may notice in the moment that suggests someone is in distress right now or moving toward a crisis.
In ASPIRE’s video, Know the Signs. Be the Support, Dr. Kerrie Smedley names several warning signs to take seriously.
Warning Signs to Take Seriously
| Warning Signs May Include: Talking about suicide Talking about feeling like a burden Feeling worthless Giving away prized possessions Preparing for what happens after they’re gone Major mood changes Agitation Increased reckless behavior |
Sometimes the Signs Sound Indirect
Some warning signs may sound indirect.
A person may say, “I just want to go to sleep and not wake up,” or “I don’t want to be here anymore.” Those statements may not sound as direct as “I want to die,” but they can still signal serious emotional pain.
Sometimes the Signs Are Subtle
Other signs may be more subtle.
A person may suddenly seem relieved, upbeat, or happy after a long period of depression. That change can be confusing. Sometimes it may reflect improvement. But in some cases, sudden relief after severe distress can be a warning sign that the person has made a dangerous decision.
One Question Can Change Everything
This is why Dr. Smedley encourages us to ask one of the most useful questions in suicide prevention:
| Ask Yourself: Has their behavior changed? Has their sleep changed? Has their mood changed? Have they become more withdrawn, reckless, agitated, or disconnected? Have they stopped doing things that usually bring them connection or purpose? |
Questions remind us to pay attention to the individual in front of us.
What Should You Do?
Knowing the difference between warning signs and risk factors means we can respond with more awareness.
Learning these signs is about giving ourselves more chances to notice pain early, respond with care, and help someone get connected before they feel completely alone.
If Risk Factors Are Present
If risk factors are present, offer connection and support. Check in more often. Help the person stay connected to care, community, and trusted resources.
If Warning Signs Are Present
Sometimes, you can start the conversation by sharing the warning signs or changes you have noticed. You might say, “I’ve noticed you haven’t seemed like yourself lately. You’ve been spending more time alone, drinking more than usual, and work doesn’t seem to matter to you the way it normally does. That’s not like you, and I’m worried about you. Are you thinking about suicide?”
Starting with what you have noticed can help the person understand where your concern is coming from. You are not making assumptions about what they are feeling. You are letting them know that you have been paying attention, that you care, and that you are willing to ask the difficult question directly.
| Ask Directly“ Are you thinking about suicide?” “Have you had thoughts of suicide?” “I’ve noticed some changes, and I’m worried about you. Are you having thoughts of suicide?” |
Crisis Resources
| Crisis Resources Call or text 988 Contact local crisis intervention Call 911 if emergency help is needed Call Dauphin County Crisis Intervention at 717-232-7511 |
If they say yes, listen, stay calm, and help connect them to support. If there is immediate danger, call or text 988, contact local crisis intervention, or call 911 if emergency help is needed.
Dauphin County residents can contact Dauphin County Crisis Intervention at 717-232-7511.
Know the Signs. Be the Support.
There is reason for hope in learning the difference between warning signs and risk factors. When we know what to notice, we’re better prepared to respond sooner, ask clearer questions, and help someone move toward care.
Know the signs. Be the support.
Understanding the difference between warning signs and risk factors doesn’t make you responsible for having all the answers. It helps you recognize when someone may need support—and gives you the confidence to take the next step.
| Quick Recap Remember the difference: Risk factors increase someone’s vulnerability. Risk factors do not automatically mean immediate danger. Warning signs may suggest that someone is moving toward a crisis. Warning signs should always be taken seriously. If you’re concerned: ask directly, listen, and help connect them to support. |
| Continue Learning Next Article: It Matters How We Talk About Suicide The words we choose can reduce stigma, encourage honest conversations, and help people feel safe asking for support. In our final article, learn why language is such an important part of suicide prevention. Know the Signs. Be the Support. Series Part 1: What to Do If You Are Worried Part 2: Common Myths About Suicide Part 3: ✓ Warning Signs vs. Risk Factors (You’re here) Part 4: It Matters How We Talk About Suicide |