Not everyone who is struggling says it out loud.

In fact, a lot of people who have suicidal thoughts don’t look like they are struggling at all. They go to work, reply to messages, sit with friends, even laugh when they’re supposed to.

And that’s what makes it easy to miss.

But if you look a little closer, there are often small changes. Nothing dramatic. Just… things that feel a bit different from how they usually are.

What they might say

Sometimes it shows up in the way they talk.

• “I’m tired of everything”
• “I don’t see the point anymore”
• “You’d be better off without me”
• Talking about wanting to disappear or escape

It’s not always direct. And because of that, it’s easy to brush off.

But sometimes, these words carry more weight than we realise.

What they might feel

On the inside, it’s usually not just sadness.

• A sense of emptiness or numbness
• Feeling disconnected from others
• Hopelessness – like things won’t get better
• Guilt, shame, or feeling like a burden
• A sudden sense of calm after distress

That last one can be confusing. It can look like improvement, but sometimes it reflects something else.

What they might do

The changes in behaviour are often subtle.

• Withdrawing from people or avoiding conversations
• Changes in sleep or appetite
• Losing interest in things they used to care about
• Decline in work or studies
• Giving away belongings or settling things
• Increased substance use or risk-taking
• None of this has to be dramatic to matter.
• When something just feels “off”
• They seem quieter or more distant than usual
• Their behaviour doesn’t quite match how they used to be
• A sudden, unusual calmness after a difficult phase

It’s hard to explain, but often people sense this in hindsight.

A final thought

Not everyone will show all of these signs. Sometimes it’s just one or two small changes—something you can’t fully explain, but you can feel.

The mind doesn’t usually go from okay to crisis overnight. There are often signs along the way. We just don’t always recognize them when they’re happening.

And if you find yourself – or someone you care about – in this situation, it’s always better to seek help than to wish you had acted earlier.

If you or someone you know might be struggling, the Prakriya hospitals helpline (080 3737 5555 ) is available 24/7 and offers free, confidential support.

Dr. Sheeba Iram

MBBS, MD Psychiatry (RGUHS)

Consultant – Psychiatrist