Suicide is Preventable
Being able to Recognize the Risks and Warning Signs is the First Step in Saving a Life
Risk Factors:
Depression, irritability, mood swings, feeling misunderstood, hopeless, or helpless
Stressors such as break-ups, rejection, problems at home or at school, homelessness, exposure to violence, or experiencing a serious loss/trauma
Previous attempts at suicide by the individual or their family members or friends
Withdrawal from friends and previously enjoyed activities
Deliberate self-injury
Alcohol and/or drug use
Access to means, such as pills and/or weapons
Lack of connection or sense of belonging. Being isolated or alone.
Sexual identity (LGBTQ youth)
What is a Risk Factor?
A risk factor is a characteristic of a person or their environment that could increase the likelihood or susceptibility to something.
Protective Factors
Protective factors are personal or environmental characteristics that can protect people from suicide even if they have risk factors
Having Positive connections to family, peers, community, and social institutions (like school)
Receiving effective mental health care (your school counselor can connect you or a friend with resources)
Possessing life skills (such as problem-solving and coping skills, and the ability to adapt to change)
Self-esteem and a sense of purpose or meaning in life
Suicide rarely occurs without warning. You may see signs in a person, hear about them second-hand, or see them online. Never ignore these signs.
Warning Signs
Making statements that imply that they do not want to live. Examples "I want to die" or "I wish I could go to sleep and not wake up"
Written intent such as Social Media posts, Plans, or Suicide Notes
Making final plans; giving away favorite things
Preoccupation with death or revenge
Changes in behavior, sleeping, eating, appearance, thoughts, and/ or feelings
Extreme mood swings, rage, withdrawal
Sudden unexplained happiness
