Identifying Children and Adolescents at Risk of Suicide
Type | Specific Factors |
|---|---|
Risk factors for suicide | |
Disorders that affect the brain | |
Family history | A family history of suicidal behavior A mother with a mood disorder A father with a history of trouble with the police Lack of communication with parents Increased rates of suicide in adults Parents' use of opioids |
Triggering events | Difficulties in school, including being disciplined or suspended Loss of a loved one (such as a boyfriend or girlfriend), especially by suicide Separation from parents Lack of social contacts, sometimes due to having no job or not going to college Victim of bullying Reports of suicide in the media, which may lead to a copycat suicide |
Circumstances | Access to firearms or prescription medications A previous attempt at suicide Barriers encountered when trying to access mental health services and/or a feeling that a stigma is attached to seeking such help |
Sexual/gender minority status | — |
Medications | Benzodiazepines |
Warning signs of suicide | |
Mental and physical symptoms | Preoccupation with morbid themes Depression A feeling of hopelessness Low self-esteem Dramatic changes in mood Changes in appetite Sleep disturbances Tension, anxiety, or nervousness Poor control of impulses |
Changes in behavior | Poor hygiene and neglect of personal appearance (especially if it is an abrupt change) Withdrawal from social interactions Playing hooky from school A decline in grades An increase in violent behavior Giving away favorite possessions |
Conversation | Statements about feeling guilty Statements suggesting a wish to be dead, such as “I wish I’d never been born” or “I’d like to go to sleep and never wake up” Direct or indirect threats to commit suicide |