Warning signs that depression is getting dangerous

## Critical Warning Signs in Depression Some depression symptoms are red flags requiring immediate action. Know these signs - they save lives. ### Immediate Danger Signs - Call 988 or 911 **Suicidal Planning** - Researching methods - Acquiring means (pills, weapons) - Writing suicide notes - Making final arrangements - Setting a date/time **Behavioral Red Flags** - Giving away prized possessions - Saying goodbye unusually - Settling affairs/debts - Sudden calmness after severe depression (decision made) - Withdrawing from all support **Verbal Warnings** - "Everyone would be better off without me" - "I won't be a burden much longer" - "I can't do this anymore" - "There's no way out" - "You'll be fine without me" ### Escalation Indicators - See Provider Within 24-48 Hours **Symptom Intensification** - Sleep less than 2 hours nightly - Not eating for days - Can't get out of bed at all - Hygiene completely abandoned - Hallucinations starting **Function Collapse** - Missing work for weeks - Children neglected - Bills/responsibilities ignored completely - Isolation from everyone - Self-care stopped entirely **Substance Escalation** - Drinking/using to cope daily - Increasing amounts needed - Mixing substances - Using to "have courage" - Blackouts increasing ### Concerning Changes - Schedule Appointment Soon **Mood Shifts** - Depression suddenly worse - Agitation/restlessness new - Rage episodes starting - Switching to mania (bipolar) - Anxiety becoming panic **Physical Symptoms** - Chest pain persistent - Severe headaches - Significant weight loss - Movement slowed dramatically - Pain everywhere **Cognitive Changes** - Can't form sentences - Memory gaps - Confusion increasing - Decision-making impossible - Reality questioning ### The Paradox Moments **High Risk Times:** - Starting antidepressants (energy before mood improves) - Major life changes - Anniversary dates - After hospital discharge - Spring (surprisingly high risk) **The Dangerous Calm** When someone severely depressed suddenly seems: - Peaceful - Resolved - "Better" - Giving things away - Making amends This often means decision made - IMMEDIATE HELP NEEDED. ### What To Do - For Yourself **If You're Having These Thoughts:** 1. Tell someone NOW 2. Remove means (pills, weapons) 3. Don't be alone 4. Call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) 5. Go to ER if imminent **Create Safety Plan:** - Warning signs I notice - Coping strategies to try - People to call for distraction - Professionals to contact - Crisis line numbers - Making environment safe ### What To Do - For Someone Else **If You're Concerned:** - Ask directly: "Are you thinking of suicide?" - Don't leave them alone - Remove means if possible - Listen without judgment - Get professional help - Follow up regularly **What TO Say:** - "I'm here for you" - "You matter to me" - "Let's get help together" - "I'll stay with you" - "This feeling will pass" **What NOT to Say:** - "You have so much to live for" - "Think how I'd feel" - "Suicide is selfish" - "Things could be worse" - "Just think positive" ### Professional Response Needed **Call Provider Immediately If:** - Any suicidal ideation - Self-harm occurring - Medication not working after 6 weeks - Side effects severe - Symptoms rapidly worsening **Go to ER If:** - Suicide plan exists - Can't guarantee safety - Psychosis symptoms - Mania emerging - Overdose occurred ### The Bridge Concepts **Reasons to Stay:** - This is temporary (even if it doesn't feel it) - Treatment works (multiple options exist) - Brain is lying to you - People need you (even if you can't see it) - Future you will be grateful **Holding On Strategies:** - 24 hours at a time - 10 minutes at a time - One breath at a time - Crisis lines available 24/7 - ER always an option ### Resources Available 24/7 - **988**: Suicide & Crisis Lifeline - **Crisis Text Line**: Text HOME to 741741 - **Trevor Project**: 1-866-488-7386 (LGBTQ+) - **Veterans Crisis Line**: 1-800-273-8255 - **Emergency Room**: Always available *Depression lies and tells you there's no hope, no help, and no point. These are symptoms speaking, not truth. Help exists, hope returns, and you matter more than depression lets you believe.*