Risk factors & warning signs of suicidal thoughts
There are many warning signs and risk factors that someone may experience a mental health concern, crisis or thoughts of suicide. No single warning sign or risk factor means someone will have mental health concerns or thoughts of suicide. But by being informed, you can feel prepared in a crisis situation.
Risk factors of thoughts of suicide
Risk factors are complex and vary from person to person, often involving a combination of biological, psychological and environmental factors. Here are common risk factors that can increase the chances that someone will experience a mental health concern or thoughts of suicide.
Substance use
Alcohol and/or drug misuse can amplify feelings of depression and impulsivity, increasing the risk of suicidal behavior.
Trauma and abuse
A history of physical, emotion or sexual abuse can increase the risk someone will experience a
mental health concern or thoughts of suicide. Neglect, exposure to violence and experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event(s) can also increase the risk.
Social factors
Many social factors can impact the chances someone will experience mental health concerns or thoughts of suicide. These can include:
- Loneliness or social isolation
- Bullying or harassment, including cyberbullying
- Relationship conflicts, breakups or loss
- Discrimination, particularly for marginalized groups like LGBTQIA+ individuals
Life stressors
Stressors like financial concerns, legal issues, academic or work-related stress, disability or chronic illness, and grief from the loss of a loved one can increase the chances someone will experience mental health concerns or thoughts of suicide.
Biological factors
A family history of mental illness or suicidal thoughts/attempts can increase the chance someone will experience similar concerns.
Access to lethal means
Easy access to lethal means (ie. firearms, medications and other methods) significantly increases the risk that someone will attempt suicide or die by suicide.
Warning signs someone may be experiencing thoughts of suicide
Sometimes, we don’t see any warning signs that someone may be thinking about suicide. However, being familiar with common behaviors or feelings that can accompany thoughts of suicide can help you support yourself or a loved one. Here are some common warning signs that someone may be thinking about death by suicide, from the National Institute of Mental Health.
Talking about:
- Wanting to die
- Great guilt or shame
- Being a burden to others
Feeling:
- Empty, hopeless, trapped, or having no reason to live
- Extremely sad, more anxious, agitated, or full of rage
- Unbearable emotional or physical pain
Changing behavior, such as:
- Making a plan or researching ways to die
- Withdrawing from friends, saying goodbye, giving away important items, or making a will
- Taking dangerous risks, such as driving extremely fast
- Displaying extreme mood swings
- Eating or sleeping more or less
- Using drugs or alcohol more often
If you notice that you or someone you care about is experiencing these warning signs, it’s important to ask for help. Talking about thoughts of suicide or mental health concerns can be life-changing or lifesaving.
At Foundation 2 Crisis Services, our caring, nonjudgemental counselors are here to listen and support you or a loved one. We can help you navigate difficult emotions, connect with support in your community and provide a listening ear. It’s always free and confidential.