Risk Factors
Risk factors are long standing conditions, stressful events, or situations that may increase the likelihood of a suicide attempt or death. Risk factors do not cause suicide, but when many factors are present; these may increase an individual's vulnerability.
Experience mental illness (90% of people who kill themselves have a diagnosable and treatable mental illness)
Previous suicidal behavior
Family history of suicide
Bullying and/or harassment
Sexual/physical abuse
Social isolation and loneliness
Problematic parenting or family environments
Warning Signs
Suicide can be prevented. While some suicides occur without any outward warning, most people who are suicidal do give warnings. Prevent the suicide of loved ones by learning to recognize the signs of someone at risk, taking those signs seriously and knowing how to respond to them.
Making suicide threats or statements about wanting to die
Expressing feelings of being trapped
Previous suicide attempts
Seeking access to firearms or other means
Long periods of depression
Change in sleeping habits
Giving away prized possessions
Recent recklessness and taking unnecessary risks
Increasing alcohol or drug use
Sudden changes in mood or behavior
Withdrawal from friends, family, and society
What to Do
ASK.
Directly ask if the person is having thoughts of suicide.
LISTEN.
Don't judge and don't try to solve problems; focus on getting help.
REFER.
Contact a counselor, mental health professional, local crisis center or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
To learn more about suicide, please refer to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's website by clicking here.
