RISK FACTORS

Depression is the #1 cause of suicidal behavior

Depression is number one cause of suicidal behavior and depression is highly treatable. If you know that a student had a history of mental disorders, particularly clinical depression, don’t hesitate to reach out to them.

Other risk factors

There are a number of additional factors that can increase a teen’s suicide risk.

• Family history of suicide
• Family history of child maltreatment
• Previous suicide attempt(s)
• History of mental disorders, particularly clinical depression
• History of alcohol and substance abuse
• Cultural and religious beliefs (e.g., belief that suicide is noble resolution of a personal dilemma)
• Local epidemics of suicide
• Physical symptoms: eating disturbances, changes in sleep pattern, chronic headaches, stomach problems, menstrual irregularities

Protective factors

These protective factors can help reduce the impact of risk factors and build resiliency.

• Effective clinical care for mental, physical, and substance abuse disorders
• Easy access to a variety of clinical interventions and support for help seeking
• Family and community support (connectedness)
• Support from ongoing medical and mental health care relationships
• Skills in problem solving, conflict resolution, and nonviolent ways of handling disputes
• Cultural and religious beliefs that discourage suicide and support instincts for self-preservation