Facts about Depression and Suicide
What are some risk factors for suicide?
- Major mental-health problems
- Trauma, including rape and sexual assault
- Substance abuse problems
- Gender identity issues
- Lack of Family stability
- Loss of family member or friend (especially by suicide)
What can I do for someone who is suicidal?
- Trust your instincts. Believe the person may commit suicide.
- Voice your concern and desire to help
- Listen to what the person is telling you
- Do not act shocked or judge the person
- Do not try to counsel the person
- Ask direct questions, the more detailed the better
- Remove and firearms, drugs, or sharp objects that could be used in a suicide attempt
- Get professional help even if the suicidal person resists
Warning signs for Suicide
- Verbal Threats
- Expressions of hopelessness or helplessness
- Prior suicide attempts
- Daring and risk taking behavior
- Personality changes (withdrawal, aggression, moodiness)
- Depression
- Giving away prized possessions
- Lack of interest in the future
- Increse in drug or alcohol use
- Recent severe loss or threat of such a loss
