Risk Factors
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Risk Factors
Many factors contribute to suicide risk.
Risk factors do not cause or predict a suicide, rather they are characteristics that make it more likely an A combination of situations could lead someone to consider suicide. Risk factors increase the possibility of suicide, but they might not be direct causes.
Individual:
- Previous suicide attempt
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Mental health conditions, such as depression
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Social isolation
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Criminal, financial, or legal problems
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Impulsive or aggressive behaviors
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Job problems or loss
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Serious illness
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Substance use disorder
Community:
- Barriers to health care
- Cultural and religious beliefs such as a belief that suicide is a noble resolution of a personal problem
- Suicide cluster in the community
Relationships:
- Adverse childhood experiences such as child abuse and neglect
- Bullying
- Family history of suicide
- Relationship problems such as a break-up, violence, or loss
- Sexual violence
- Traumas
Societal:
- The stigma associated with mental health or help-seeking
- Easy access to lethal means such as firearms or medications
- Unsafe media portrayals of suicide
