Saturday, December 16, 2017

Suicidal Ideation - Risk Factors and Warning Signs


According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 million adults attempt suicide each year in the United States. Suicide attempts are most common among individuals with depression, though anxiety, substance dependence, and other mental health conditions increase a person's risk. Attempts are increasingly likely among those who have a personal or family history of suicide attempts, as well as among those who have current or past stressors associated with their illnesses.

Many individuals who are considering suicide indicate their intentions to others, either through words or actions. They may speak of feeling hopeless, in pain, and like a burden to those around them. They may even talk about wanting to die or actively threaten to kill themselves. 

Some may seek out lethal means, such as guns or pills; others may reach out to others to say goodbye or give away their possessions, while still others self-isolate. In many cases, the individual engages in reckless behavior that is outside of his or her norm. 

It is important for those who notice such behaviors and topics of conversation to talk to the suicidal person. They might ask if the person has a plan for killing himself or herself, and express an interest in connecting the person with help. If the individual has immediate access to lethal means, however, immediate medical intervention is critical.

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