The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention website lists risk factors and warning signs for suicide.
The most frequent risk factors for suicide center around alcohol or substance abuse or dependence, mental disorders (many undiagnosed and untreated), such as depression or bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, conduct disorders in youth, and anxiety disorders, among others.
A previous suicide attempt is of special concern as is family history of attempted or completed suicide. A serious medical condition or pain can also lead someone to give up.
People who have one or more of the major risk factors listed can become suicidal in the face of factors in their environment such as:
•A highly stressful life event.
•Prolonged stress from unemployment, serious relationship conflict, harassment or bullying.
•Exposure to another person's suicide or to graphic or sensationalized accounts of suicide.
•Access to lethal methods of suicide during a time of increased risk.
The Foundation noted a number of protective factors that can lessen suicide risk. They include:
•Receiving effective mental health care.
•Positive connections to family, peers, community, and social institutions such as marriage and religion that foster resilience.
•Learning skills and developing the ability to solve problems.
Be aware of warning signs:
•Talking about wanting to kill themselves, or saying they wish they were dead.
•Looking for a way to do it, such as hoarding medicine or buying a firearm.
•Talking about a specific suicide plan.
•Feeling hopeless or feeling they have no reason to live.
•Feeling trapped, desperate, or needing to escape an intolerable situation.
•Feeling like a burden to others.
•Feeling humiliated.
•Having intense anxiety and /or panic attacks.
•Losing interest or the ability to experience pleasuire.
•Insomnia.
•Becoming socially isolated and withdraw.
•Showing rage, or talking about seeking revenge.
What to do if you suspect someone may be at risk for suicide:
Take it seriously. Ask specific questions, express your concern. Encourage professional help.
For more information and help visit wwwafsp.org or call the national suicide prevention lifeline, 1-800-273-TALK (8255).[[In-content Ad]]
