Suicide Risk in Recovery
Suicide risk rises in early recovery, when depression, shame, and isolation hit hardest. If you or someone you know is in crisis right now, call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7.
Why Does Suicide Risk Increase in Recovery?
Recovery strips away the thing that was numbing everything. What's underneath can be brutal:
- Depression in early recovery
- Shame
- Isolation
- Feeling hopeless
- Underlying mental health issues
What Are the Warning Signs?
These are the signals to watch for in yourself or someone you care about:
- Talking about wanting to die
- Looking for ways to die
- Talking about feeling hopeless
- Self-harm
- Giving away possessions
- Saying goodbye
- Extreme mood swings
What Should You Do?
If you're in crisis:
- Call 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline)
- Go to ER
- Call sponsor
- Go to meeting
- Tell someone
If someone else is in crisis:
- Take it seriously
- Call 988
- Don't leave them alone
- Remove means
- Get help
Where Can You Get Help Right Now?
These resources are free and available 24/7:
- 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988)
- Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741)
- SAMHSA Helpline (1-800-662-4357)
- ER
What Should You Do First?
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Know the warning signs. Depression is common in early recovery. Recognizing the signs matters.
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Call 988. If you're in crisis, or someone near you is. Available 24/7.
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Tell someone. Don't isolate. A sponsor, a friend, a therapist.
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Get help. Therapy, a treatment center, whatever it takes.
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Stay in recovery. It gets better. You matter.
Help is available. You are not alone. Call 988.
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