Understanding the issues concerning suicide and mental health is an important way to take part in suicide prevention, help others in crisis, and change the conversation around suicide.
Evidence shows that providing support services, talking about suicide, reducing access to means of self-harm, and following up with loved ones are just some of the actions we can all take to help others.
By offering immediate counseling to everyone that may need it, local crisis centers provide invaluable support at critical times and connect individuals to local services.
If you or someone you know is in a moment of crisis, you can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline anytime, 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-800-273-8255.
KNOW THE RISK FACTORS
There are a number of risk factors, or characteristics, that make it more likely that someone will consider, attempt, or die by suicide. They can’t cause or predict a suicide attempt, but they’re important to be aware of. These include:
- Mental disorders, particularly mood disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and certain personality disorders.
- Alcohol and other substance use disorders.
- Hopelessness.
- Impulsive and/or aggressive tendencies.
- History of trauma or abuse.
- Major physical illnesses.
- Previous suicide attempt(s).
- Family history of suicide.
- Job or financial loss.
- Loss of relationship(s).
- Easy access to lethal means.
- Local clusters of suicide.
- Lack of social support and sense of isolation.
- Stigma associated with asking for help.
- Lack of healthcare, especially mental health and substance abuse treatment.
- Cultural and religious beliefs, such as the belief that suicide is a noble resolution of a personal dilemma.
- Exposure to others who have died by suicide (in real life or via the media and Internet).
KNOW THE WARNING SIGNS
Some warning signs may help you determine if a loved one is at risk for suicide, especially if the behavior is new, has increased, or seems related to a painful event, loss, or change. If you or someone you know exhibits any of these, seek help by calling the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
- Talking about wanting to die or to commit suicide.
- Looking for a way to commit suicide like searching online or buying a gun.
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.
- Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain.
- Talking about being a burden to others.
- Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.
- Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly.
- Sleeping too little or too much.
- Withdrawing or isolating themselves.
- Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.
- Extreme mood swings.
CALL FOR HELP
If you or someone you know are in crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline anytime, at 1-800-273-8255.
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