Intentional Poisoning: Warning Signs and Prevention

Poisoning is the 3rd most common method of suicide, after gun use and suffocation. Every day, The University of Kansas Hospital Poison Control Center receives calls about people who have tried to harm themselves with poison. Some of these calls are placed by individuals, and others come from hospitals or paramedics.

• Talking about suicide
• Feeling hopeless
• Losing the will to live
• Talking about being a burden to others
• Increased drug or alcohol use

• Any attempt to hurt one's self is an emergency – even if the substance taken wasn't deadly
• Anyone who feels the desire to inflict self-harm – or who has acted upon it – should get help immediately
• People who try to hurt themselves once will often try again

• Remove old or unnecessary medicines and chemicals from the home
• Safely dispose of these products per your local authorities
• Make sure all medicines are secured and administered by a responsible caregiver
• Get help for anyone who seems depressed
• Consult a physician about symptoms and treatment options as signs of depression vary with age