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While there’s no single cause, suicide most often occurs when stressors exceed a child or an adult's ability to cope. Generally, untreated or undiagnosed mental health issues, particularly , greatly influence suicide.

But there are other aspects to consider and many people can find them challenging. Specifically, risk factors are often confused with warning signs of suicide. But the two are very different.

Warning signs indicate an immediate risk of suicide, whereas risk factors suggest someone is at heightened risk for suicide, but not necessarily in crisis.

Another way to understand these is simply this:

1) Risk factors increase the probability a crisis will occur.

2) Warning signs indicate a suicidal crisis has already begun.

How to know the difference:

Take the time to learn the signs that signal a friend or loved one is at risk for suicide. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention suggests these three areas: HEALTH, ENVIRONMENT, HISTORY.

Health factors

Mental health conditions

disorders

disorders

Serious or chronic health conditions



Limited access to healthcare

difficulties

Environmental factors

life events including death, , or separation or job loss

Prolonged stress factors including harassment, , relationship problems

Financial or school difficulties

Access to lethal means including firearms and drugs

Exposure to suicide in the media or community

Historical factors

Previous suicide attempts

Family history of suicide attempts

History of

Recent hospitalization

Cultural beliefs that support suicide

Now, familiarize yourself for signals that warn suicide may be imminent. The American Foundation of Suicide suggests these three areas: TALK, BEHAVIOR, MOOD.

Talk

Being a burden to others

Feeling trapped

Talking about feeling hopeless and helpless

Experiencing unbearable pain

Expressing there's no reason to live

Poor problem solving

Behavior

Increased use of alcohol or drugs

Accessing lethal means

Acting recklessly

Withdrawing from activities

Isolating from family and friends

Sleeping too much or too little

Visiting or calling people to say goodbye

Giving away prized possessions

Hopelessness about the future

Mood

Depression

Loss of interest



Irritability





Impulsivity

Despair

Sudden sense of peacefulness

How to get help

If you or a loved one experiences any risk factors, reach out to a mental health professional for help. National and Global hotlines are also available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to help you find support or care.

1-800-273-TALK or 1-800-273-5322

If warning signs are present, it's vital to get immediate care. Calling 911 or going to the nearest hospital emergency room can be life-saving.

Worldwide, more people die from suicide than all the deaths caused by accidents, natural disasters, wars and homicides around the world, combined. Eight out of ten people considering suicide give some sign of their intentions.

With knowledge and prevention, we can help those struggling with suicidal thinking find treatment, hope, and healing.