5 Suicide Risk Factors and How To Mitigate Them

Around one million people commit suicide every year. Suicide is a top three reason for deaths of people 18 to 44. People commit up to 20% more suicide attempts than completions. Suicide is devastating to everyone involved. It can seemingly come from nowhere. Although there are sometimes no warning signs, there are factors that put a person at risk of pursuing suicide. 

Five Suicide Risk Factors

Some risk factors can cause people to pursue suicide. Those at risk need to contact psychiatry in Chicago. The following are top factors that make people more likely to pursue suicide. 

• The individual suffers from depression or other mental health conditions. Those people suffering from frequent bouts of hopelessness and worthlessness are more at risk. 
• Individuals are more at risk of suicide if they suffer from frequent pain or health concerns. They are especially at risk if there is no known cause for their condition. 
• Those who abuse drugs or alcohol are more likely to end their lives. Frequent abuse leads to critical risk factors for suicide. 
• Previous suicide attempts could lead to an increased risk of further attempts and completion. Those attempting suicide often need to be placed on suicide watches. 
• Major losses in life can also lead to suicide. Those who have lost a job or relationship may suddenly decide suicide is the only answer. 

Although someone may be at risk of committing suicide, that does not necessarily mean they will complete the act. Offering people support is essential. 

What Are the Warning Signs of Suicide?

People of all ages may commit suicide. Someone can appear happy weeks, days, or even minutes before they commit the act. Individuals need to seek help for their at-risk loved ones if they notice the following signs. 

• The person makes direct threats or attempts to harm themselves. Friends and loved ones must take these threats and attempts seriously. It is always better to err on the side of caution. 
• Individuals may purchase a gun or stockpile pills. If the person is actively pursuing ways to end their life, someone needs to take action. The more detailed the plan, the greater the risk of completion. 
• People at a high risk of committing suicide may suddenly change their behavior and moods. If they are usually sad all the time, they may become intensely happy. A normally aggressive person may become overly calm. 
• Individuals who suddenly begin taking care of end-of-life affairs may attempt suicide. Have they made a will or started selling their belongings? These are warning factors no one should ignore. 
• People who start saying goodbye to friends and loved ones are at a high risk of committing suicide. If someone starts making their goodbyes, friends and loved ones must take action immediately. 

Get Professional Help

There is hope for those suffering from suicidal thoughts and self-harm. No one should fight these thoughts alone. Getting professional help from a psychiatrist is critical for helping people seek treatment. Those people who feel like they are a burden to others or feel great shame need to know there is help available. Do not hesitate to get immediate help. 

If you are at risk of committing suicide, schedule an appointment with a psychiatrist. These medical doctors will perform testing and look into the reasons for these feelings so you can get help.