As a pastor, dealing with death and grief is unavoidable. You preside over funerals, minister to terminally ill people, counsel the bereaved, and face loss in your own family. It’s never easy. However, few things prepare you for the devastating news that someone you know has committed suicide.

Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, 123 people commit suicide every day in the U.S.

Churches can play a role in preventing suicide. As a pastor, you may feel unprepared or ill-equipped to minister to people with mental health problems. Nevertheless, there are warning signs and risk factors of which you should be aware. Learning to recognize these may help you save a life.

1. Depression

Depression is the leading cause of suicide. Everyone experiences sadness at times; major depression is much more severe. Look for emotional changes that are debilitating or prolonged.

2. Drastic Changes in Behavior

This could include increased use of drugs or alcohol or decreased social interaction. Especially look out for those who isolate themselves from friends and family.

3. Talking About It

If someone begins talking about suicide, take them seriously. Listen for things like, “I have no reason to live,” or, “I’m just a burden to everyone around me.”

4. Hopelessness

People who commit suicide often feel trapped in their situation, circumstances or condition. When they feel there is no hope, they may think of suicide as the only way out.

Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States.

5. Interest in Self-Harm

Is a depressed person suddenly interested in purchasing drugs or a handgun? Has a family member noticed online searches related to suicide? Has the person engaged in self-harm, such as cutting or previous suicide attempts? These are signs you shouldn’t ignore.

6. Saying Goodbye

Melancholy people may be emotional when you talk to them, but suicidal people will often reach out with formal goodbyes to those closest to them. Also, be on the lookout for anyone giving away their prized possessions.

7. Recent Changes in Health

If someone experiences a serious health problem, it could make them feel helpless and hopeless. It could be a diagnosis of cancer or some other life-threatening disease, a mental health issue, or even an accident resulting in excessive pain.

8. Prolonged Exposure to Stress

There are certain stress factors that can contribute to a person contemplating suicide. When someone is exposed to these for an extended time, it can become overwhelming. Look for bullying or harassment, a stressful work environment, or a difficult home life.

9. Major Negative Life Events

Painful life events may trigger depression and suicidal thoughts in some people. These can include a divorce, a job loss or serious financial problems, legal trouble, or the death of a loved one.

10. Proximity to Another Suicide

Tragically, suicide can lead to other suicides. It’s so common that experts describe these as suicide clusters. When someone close to your church or in your community commits suicide, take the time to talk about it, encourage those who are suffering, and offer a message of hope.

There is no single cause of suicide. But knowing what to watch for is an important first step toward helping people get the intervention they need. Encourage those who may be at risk to seek the help of a mental health professional. You can also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.