If you have a friend or loved one who has talked about suicide, has attempted suicide or has followed through on suicide, learning about this ultimate act of despair can help you understand the thought processes behind this decision. It can also help you recognize the signs of suicidal thought and may help you prevent someone from taking his or her life. What is suicide? Suicide is neither an illness nor a condition. Rather, it's a complex set of behaviors that exists on a continuum, from ideas to actions. For instance, someone you know may wish he or she were dead but never intend to act on those thoughts. They may think about suicide but not have a specific plan. On the other hand, they may have a very specific plan, with a date, location and method. Or they may have a plan as well as the intent and the means to carry it out.