Table 3

• Noticeable changes in appetite, weight, sleep, use of alcohol / chemical subs., academics, work, sexual patterns, social and/or religious activities
• Lack of energy, lethargy, fatigue
• Loss of pleasure in usual activities
• Decreased concentration and lack of interest
• Hyperactivity, restlessness
• Somatic complaints
• Withdrawal
• Frequent, unexplained, irrational changes in behavior
• Impulsiveness and recklessness
• Aggressiveness
• Giving away favorite or prized possessions (a "living will"

• Withdrawal, sulkiness
• Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness
• Crying spells, tearfulness, sadness
• Low self-esteem, unreal expectations of self
• Pronounced mood swings
• Anxiety
• Feelings of loss
• Feelings of powerlessness, out-of control, outside control
• Feelings of isolation, loneliness
• Depression
• Sudden happiness following depression
• Guilt, remorse, self-reproachment
• Nervousness
• Despondency

• "I won't be around much longer."
• "______ would be better off without me."
• "I just can't take it anymore."
• "Nobody would miss me if ______."
• "I'm going to end it all."
• "Who'd care?"
• "I want to die."
• "They'll be sorry when I'm gone."
• "I just want to lay down and sleep forever."
• "It won't be long before this pain is gone."
• "Did you ever wonder what it would feel like to be dead?"
• "I'm going to commit suicide."

Source: A Pediatric Perspective, July/August 2000 Volume 9 Number 4

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