SUICIDE RISK FACTORS
Suicidal behavior is complex. Because of this, risk factors vary with age, gender, socioeconomic status, and ethnicity. Other factors include things such as: unresolved emotions, exposure to trauma (including war and the state of the economy). Young Black males may be more predisposed to these risk factors than other demographics.
The major risk factors for suicide include:
Psychiatric Diagnosis – Certain psychiatric diagnoses create a higher risk, including: depression, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, and personality disorders.
Undiagnosed Depression and other mental disorders – This group is at even greater risk because no medical attention is provided to foster a return to equilibrium and maintenance.
Post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD) – Survivors of trauma often struggle with nightmares and flashbacks. This could stem from a past event such as childhood sexual abuse or a relatively recent physical occurrence, such as bullying or participating in violent warfare. According to Stephen Soreff, author of the article Suicide Introduction and Definitions: “Veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan experience a high rate of PTSD and have a historically high rate of suicide. They have feelings of being damaged and feelings of guilt. As a result, they have a high rate of suicide.” [1]
Substance abuse – Excessive use of drugs and/or alcohol, usually initiated to deal with mental dis-ease, can lead to further losses such as that of a family or job.
Genetics or prior family history of suicide – Studies show a genetic connection to suicidal behavior. If a family member has previously attempted or completed suicide, you are at greater risk of making an attempt yourself.
Prior attempted suicide – If someone previously made a suicide attempt, they are at much greater risk of making a future attempt.
A firearm in the home – Access to firearms is a high risk factor because firearms that are not stored safely provide a lethal means for an attempt.
Sleep deprivation – Deep, refreshing sleep is essential for feeling rested and overall well-being. Lack of sleep can make you feel very sad and could contribute to significant relationship difficulties.
Some antidepressant drugs – Dr. Andrew Mosholder, an expert with America’s Food and Drug Administration, reviewed 24 studies involving 4,582 patients taking one of nine different antidepressants. They showed that the drugs nearly doubled the risk of suicide among children and young adults. [2] “The FDA barred him from publishing his findings, but they were leaked to the press in 2004. In 2006, Mosholder’s study was published.”
Major loss – The loss of a job, death of a loved one (including a pet), major financial loss, or divorce are all significant, stressful events that could preface a suicide attempt.
Contagion by other recent suicides. The “contagion effect”, most often seen in adolescents, means that an individual is more likely to attempt suicide if they have recently learned about another suicide, whether it be a relation, friend, or media personality.
Sexual or physical abuse (including bullying) – Studies have shown that children who are repeatedly abused and are abused by members of their immediate family are at greater risk for suicide. Further, those who have been sexually abused are at higher risk than those who were physically abused.
Incarceration – Incarceration or an altercation with the justice system is another major risk factor for a suicide attempt. Many people need to be monitored for suicidality after a recent incarceration.
[1] Soreff, S. (1 November, 2011). Suicide Introduction and Definitions. Retrieved from http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/2013085-overview
[2] Mosholder, W.M. (2006). Suicidal adverse events in pediatric randomized, controlled clinical trials of antidepressant drugs are associated with active drug treatment: a meta-analysis. Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology, 16 (1-2), 25-32.
