General Risk Factors of Suicide

  • Feelings of hopelessness or rejection
  • Break up of a romantic relationship OR other major loss such as the loss of income, job, home, self-esteem, social network, etc.
  • Family history of suicide, depression, violence, and/or instability
  • History of trauma or abuse
  • Mental health disorders, particularly mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia and certain personality disorder diagnoses
  • Stress or disruption of routine caused by changes in relationships, divorce, moving to a new location, or a new jobs
  • Death of close friend or family member, especially from suicide
  • Clusters of suicide in a fairly short period of time–these can have a “contagion” influence
  • Problems at school, at work or with the law
  • History of impulsiveness, lack of fear, or aggressive tendencies
  • Chronic illness or pain
  • Sense of isolation or feeling different from other people
  • Facing barriers to effective and affordable care for mental health issues/substance abuse
  • Alcohol or substance abuse
  • Concerns about sexual identity
  • Having access to lethal means

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