How to Help Prevent Suicide Part 2: Risk Factors

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By Norma Erickson
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Prevent Suicide - Give Hope

Suicide is the third leading cause of death for people ages 10 to 24. In order to help prevent suicide, people need to understand not only the potential warning signs of suicide; but also the risk factors that increase the odds of a serious suicide attempt. Suicide risk factors in a person’s personal or family history coupled with the presence of suicide warning signs, present a potentially lethal combination. The good news is most suicides are preventable.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Step 1

Learn the risk factors. Any of the risk factors listed below, in combination with behavioral warning signs, substantially increase the possibility that a person may attempt suicide. The most common risk factors are listed in the Tips Section below, for your convenience.
Step 2

Pay attention, listen carefully and respond compassionately. When someone you know has one or more of the risk factors listed above and exhibits warning signs of suicidal behavior—always take the threat seriously.
Step 3

Make sure someone is constantly with the person. If you can’t stay with them, make sure another close relative or friend can. Speak supportively and don’t condemn their thoughts of suicide. Just let them talk. Do not be judgmental.
Step 4

Keep all potentially lethal objects away from the person who may be considering suicide.
Step 5

Contact trained professional help immediately. If trained professionals are not available in your area, or you don’t know how to locate them, call one or both of the numbers listed in the Hints and Tips Section below.

Tips & Warnings

COMMON RISK FACTORS:
1. A personal history of mental disorder such as depression, bipolar disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders or substance abuse problems.
2. Prior suicide attempt or exposure to suicidal behavior in friends or family members.
3. A family history of suicide and/or mental disorders.
4. A history of family violence, including physical or sexual abuse.
5. Stressful life events in combination with other risk factors.
6. Chronic pain or illness.
7. Low serotonin levels.
National Suicide Prevention Center: 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433)
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
The author is not a clinical practitioner; always seek the assistance of a trained professional.