Suicide: Risk Factors and Warning Signs

My heart is broken over the recent teen murder-suicide and has me thinking about why some individuals are able to live with distress for long periods of time while others contemplate and even succeed at suicide. How can we tell when someone is considering suicide? What can we do when we know someone is contemplating suicide?

There is no doubt that suicide is a complicated issue. With the help of Cobain’s book Dying to Be Free, this article will look at the risk factors and warning signs of suicide while offering practical tips for how to help others.

Suicide Risk Factors

There is no single common denominator and no one way to determine exactly who is at risk for suicide. Every situation looks a bit different although there are common traits and circumstances found in those who contemplate and carry out suicide.

Common Traits:

Perfectionist
High achievement
Fear of failure
Low self-esteem
Hopelessness
Childhood trauma
Prior suicide attempts
Family history of suicide
Effects of father figure
Talent or high intelligence
Tendency to question life’s meaning

Although they are sometimes subtle, the following signs can be helpful in determining those are risk of self-harm. It is important to keep in mind that suicidal people may display all, or few, or none of the below behaviors making in difficult to pinpoint those who will follow through on suicide.

Suicide Warning Signs:

Previous attempts
Family history of suicide
Conflicts
Shift in behavior and/or substance use
Withdrawal
Recent meaningful loss
Hopelessness and helplessness
Anxiety
Preoccupation with death
Preparing for death
Sudden lifting of mood

What can I do?

If you think someone you know if contemplating suicide, the simplest and best way to find out is to ask direct questions. Here are a few suggestions that Cobain suggests in her book:

“I am wondering if you ever think about ending your life?”
“Sometimes people who have experienced what you are going through consider taking their life. Are you thinking about suicide?”
“Have you been having suicidal thoughts?”
“Are you thinking about killing yourself?”

It is essential that you do not ask about suicide in a negative way. Some examples of questions that should be avoided are, “You aren’t thinking about suicide are you?” or “You aren’t thinking of doing anything stupid are you?” If you ask questions with this kind of tone you may cause shame and it may appear that you aren’t prepared to handle the difficult truth. That person will most likely avoid talking to you about it. It is also important to avoiding beating around the bush and instead be very specific. Avoid asking questions about “hurting oneself” and instead be very specific about “killing oneself”.

Suicide: What if the answer is “yes”?

Do not panic
Do not judge
Listen calmly
Silence is ok. Just listen and keep listening
Do not argue
Do not try to “fix”
Do not be sworn to secrecy about anything
Do not discount feelings
Be caring and compassionate
Ask if he/she has a plan

Suicide: What if they have a plan?

If the suicidal person has a specific plan you should ask further questions about that plan such as “How will it happen?” and “When will it happen?”

Don’t be afraid to ask specific questions about that plan. If this person has obtained the means to act upon his or her plan, you should be ready to take further steps. It is probably necessary to ask that person to give that item or items to a trusted person. Sometimes these items include a gun, pills, rope or a car. You may be that trusted person. Assist that person to find other options such as a parent, sibling or friend. If there isn’t a safe person you may need to suggest calling 911, a local crisis line or an emergency room. Do not leave that suicidal person if he/she has a specific plan unless that person has someone to care for them. If for any reason you are unable to do these things you should immediately ask a trusted adult, family member or professional for assistance. Do not hesitate to call 911 yourself. It is essential that you help that person find help!

We will never prevent all suicides but in understanding the warning signs and risk factors we can raise our own awareness. Understanding what to do and what questions to ask can increase our ability to intervene and save lives.

Suicide: Take Action

If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or if you are concerned about someone who is, I encourage you to be courageous and take the first step and ask for help. If it is an emergency you need to call 911, the local crisis line, or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255). You may also consider reaching out to your doctor or psychiatrist. If appropriate you can contact one of our professional Christian counselors. I would also be happy to assist you in your journey toward health.

There is hope! You can find a reason to choose life. You can BeFree!

Disclaimer: This blog post is not intended to offer therapeutic intervention for suicidal ideation. If you are feeling suicidal or know someone who is, please call a professional near you.

Reference:

Cobain, B. and Larch, J. (2006). Dying to Be Free: A Healing Guide For Families After a Suicide. Hazeldon Foundation: Center City, Minnesota.

Photo Credit:

Unsplash, Oscar Keys

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