Suicide Risk & Protective Factors
Some factors do exist that may put people at a higher risk for suicide. The presence of a single risk factor doesn’t necessarily mean that a person is at high risk of suicide, but a number of risk factors together should signal concern.
In addition, the presence of depression or bipolar disorder, hopelessness, and/or substance abuse, in combination with other risk factors, increases an individual’s risk of suicide significantly.
Risk Factors
- Previous suicide attempt(s)
- Mental disorders-particularly mood disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and certain personality disorders
- Co-occurring mental and alcohol and substance abuse disorders
- Family history of suicide
- Hopelessness, thoughts and feelings of being a burden to others
- Impulsive and/or aggressive tendencies
- Barriers to accessing mental health treatment when it is needed
- Relational, social, work, or financial loss
- Major physical illness
- Easy access to lethal methods, especially guns
- Lack of connectedness, social support, or a sense of isolation
- Substance abuse
- History of trauma or abuse, particularly sexual abuse
- Cultural and religious beliefs, such as the belief that suicide is a noble resolution of a personal dilemma
- Losing a loved one to suicide
- Bullying, harassment, or victimization by peers
- Persistent serious family conflict
Protective Factors
While the presence of multiple risk factors can put someone at a higher risk for suicide, the presence of multiple protective factors can help reduce risk of suicidal behavior. The more protective qualities a person has, the lower their risk for suicide.
- Strong problem solving skills
- Positive self-image
- Spiritual life/faith
- Close family relationships
- Strong peer support systems
- Involvement in hobbies or activities
- Community connectedness
- Access to treatment
- Restricted access to means
Source: 13Minutes.org, Nebraska State Suicide Prevention Coalition, National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Safeguarding Your Home
A survey of people who had seriously considered suicide in the past year found that for about 30%, the suicidal period lasted under an hour. It also found that the interval between deciding on suicide and attempting was 10 minutes or less for 24%–74% of attempters. The choice of suicide method generally depends on one simple factor: availability. Reducing the availability of highly lethal and commonly used suicide methods has been associated with declines in suicide rates of as much as 30%–50% in other countries.
If a loved one is having thoughts of suicide, it is important to safeguard your home. Below are some ways you can reduce a possible suicide attempt.
- Keep all guns locked up and hidden or temporarily remove them from the home
- Store guns away from ammunition
- Lock up large quantities of prescription and over the counter drugs
- Request smaller prescription refill quantities (e.g., weekly rather than monthly refills)
- Dispose of all old and unused prescription drugs
- Keep knives and sharp objects hidden or out of reach
- Have the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number readily available: 988
Source: AASP.org
