known risk factors

Suicidal behaviors are often associated with depression. However, depression by itself is seldom sufficient to produce suicidal behavior. Other co-existing disorders, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, substance abuse or anxiety can increase the risk of suicide. Recent stressful events can trigger suicidal behavior, particularly in an impulsive youth. Girls may be more likely to make suicidal attempts, but boys are more likely to succeed in the attempt.
Other Risks Include the Following:

    •       Previous suicide attempts

    •       Close family member who has committed suicide

    •       Past psychiatric hospitalization

    •       Recent losses: This may include the death of a relative, a family divorce, or break up with a girlfriend or boyfriend

    •       Social isolation: The individual does not have social alternatives or skills to find alternatives to suicide

    •       Drug or alcohol abuse: Drugs decrease impulse control making impulsive suicide more likely

    •       Some individuals try to self-medicate depression with drugs or alcohol     •   Exposure to violence in the home or the social environment: The individual sees violent behavior as a viable solution to life problems

    •       Handguns in the home, especially if they are stored loaded
SOURCE-http://www.cdc.gov

Additional information: http://www.afsp.org
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