Warning Signs and Risk Factors for Suicide

Because September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness month, here is more info on warning signs to look out for if you suspect that someone you know may be thinking about suicide. Info from NAMI Risk of Suicide page.

Know the Warning Signs

- Threats or comments about killing themselves, also known as suicidal ideation, can begin with seemingly harmless thoughts like I wish I wasnt here but can become more overt and dangerous

- Increased alcohol and drug use

- Aggressive behavior

- Social withdrawal from friends, family and the community

- Dramatic mood swings

- Talking, writing or thinking about death

- Impulsive or reckless behavior

Is There Imminent Danger?

- Any person exhibiting these behaviors should get care immediately:

- Putting their affairs in order and giving away their possessions

- Saying goodbye to friends and family

- Mood shifts from despair to calm

- Planning, possibly by looking around to buy, steal or borrow the tools they need to commit suicide, such as a firearm or prescription medication

If you are unsure, a licensed mental health professional can help assess risk.

Risk Factors for Suicide

Research has found that about 90% of individuals who die by suicide experience mental illness. A number of other things may put a person at risk of suicide, including:

- A family history of suicide.

- Substance abuse. Drugs and alcohol can result in mental highs and lows that exacerbate suicidal thoughts.

- Intoxication. More than one in three people who die from suicide are found to be currently under the influence.

- Access to firearms.

- A serious or chronic medical illness.

- Gender. Although more women than men attempt suicide, men are four times more likely to die by suicide.

- A history of trauma or abuse.

- Prolonged stress.

- Isolation.

- Age. People under age 24 or above age 65 are at a higher risk for suicide.

- A recent tragedy or loss.

- Agitation and sleep deprivation.

As always, if you or someone you know if thinking about suicide, please don't hesitate to reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 24/7 at 800-273-8255. You can also text NAMI to 741741 to talk with a trained crisis counselor at Crisis Text Line.