If you or somebody you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or actions, please connect to emergency services by calling 911, or anonymously chat with a lifeline representative by calling or texting 988.

Suicide the second leading cause of death among college students but is preventable with support and information. Knowing the warning signs and risk factors may help you determine if a loved one is at risk of suicide.

The following are some of the warning signs of suicide:
• Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves
• Looking for a way to kill themselves, like searching online or buying a gun
• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
• Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
• Talking about being a burden to others
• Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
• Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
• Sleeping too little or too much
• Withdrawing or isolating themselves
• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
• Extreme mood swings

Risk factors are conditions or characteristics that may make it more likely that someone will consider or attempt suicide. The following are just some risk factors to be aware of:
• Mental disorders, particularly mood disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and certain personality disorders
• Alcohol and other substance use disorders
• Hopelessness
• Previous suicide attempt(s)
• Family history of suicide
• Job or financial loss
• Easy access to lethal means

If you feel unsafe and /or need immediate assistance please contact 911, visit your local emergency room, contact the Crisis Line at Prestera Center at 1-800-642-3434.

The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States. Call or text 988.

To reach the Veterans Crisis Line, call 988 then press 1, or text 838-255.

WV now has a 24-hour, statewide substance abuse call line 844-HELP4WV

HELP4WV offers a 24/7 call, chat, and text line that provides immediate help for any West Virginian struggling with an addiction or mental health issue. Call or text 844-HELP4WV or 844-435-7498.

Crisis text line – text START to 741-741 for confidential crisis help 24/7.

The Trevor Project offers information & support to LGBTQ+ 
young people 24/7, all year round. Text START to 678-678 or call 1-866-488-7386.

For more information on Suicide Prevention and Recovery, visit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention at https://afsp.org/ or visit https://988lifeline.org/ .

Please see the Community Resources Guide for other local and national resources.