Suicide is preventable. Knowing the risk factors and recognizing the warning signs for suicide can help prevent suicide.
Suicide is linked to mental disorders, particularly depression and alcohol use disorders, and the strongest risk factor for suicide is a previous suicide attempt. The Suicide Prevention Resource Center defines risk and protective factors and warning signs:
Risk factors are characteristics that make it more likely that an individual will consider, attempt or die by suicide.
Warning signs indicate an immediate risk of suicide.
Protective factors are characteristics that make it less likely that individuals will consider, attempt or die by suicide.
Risk Factors
Individual, relationship, community and societal factors can increase the risk of suicide such as:
Previous suicide attempt(s).
A history of suicide in the family.
Substance use.
Mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder).
Access to lethal means (for example, keeping firearms in the home or having access to unsecured prescription medications)
Losses and other events (for example, the breakup of a relationship or a death, academic failures, legal difficulties, financial difficulties).
History of trauma or abuse.
Bullying.
Chronic physical illness, including chronic pain.
Exposure to the suicidal behavior of others.
Social isolation.
Historical trauma.
Stigma associated with seeking help.
In some cases, a recent stressor or sudden catastrophic event, failure or can leave people feeling desperate, unable to see a way out, and become a “tipping point” toward suicide.
Warning Signs
Often talking or writing about death, dying or suicide.
Making comments about being hopeless, helpless or worthless.
Expressions of having no reason for living; no sense of purpose in life; saying things like “It would be better if I wasn’t here” or “I want out.”
Increased alcohol and/or drug use.
Withdrawal from friends, family and community.
Reckless behavior or more risky activities, seemingly without thinking.
Dramatic mood changes.
Talking about feeling trapped or being a burden to others.
Protective Factors
Contacts with providers (such as, follow-up phone call from health care professional).
Effective mental health care; easy access to a variety of clinical interventions.
Feelings of strong connections to individuals, family, community and social institutions.
Strong sense of cultural identity.
Problem-solving and conflict resolution skills.
What You Can Do
Suicide Crisis and Lifeline has developed five steps to take to support a loved one that may be experiencing suicidal thoughts. >
- Ask someone you are concerned about if they’re thinking about suicide. Studies show that asking someone if they are having thoughts of suicide does not increase the likelihood of a completed suicide nor does it increase suicidal thoughts.
- Be there for them. This could be by phone or in person.
- Keep them safe. Reduce access to lethal means for those at risk.
- Help them connect with ongoing support.
- Follow up. Give them a call or visit. Send a text or an email to let them know that you are still present.
