Table : TABLE 5.11 • Risk and Protective Factors for Suicide
Risk Factors
  • Mental disorder associated with suicidal behavior (e.g., depression, substance abuse, or personality disorder)
  • Feeling hopeless
  • Being male (in the United States)
  • Prior suicidal behavior (suicide threats, suicide attempts)
  • Specific behaviors that suggest suicide planning (giving away possessions, saying goodbye to friends, talking about death or suicide, talking about specific plans to commit suicide, rehearsing a suicidal act, and/or accumulating medications)
  • Family history of suicidal behavior
  • Chronic impulsivity or aggression and low stress tolerance
  • Poor coping and problem-solving skills
  • Poor judgment and rigid, distorted thinking
  • Major life stressors (physical or sexual assault, threats against life, diagnosis of serious medical problem, dissolution of a significant relationship, or sexual identity issues)
  • Breakdown of support systems or social isolation
  • Changes in mental status (acute deterioration in mental functioning, onset of major mental illness, extreme anxiety, paranoia, or severe depression)
  • Unsatisfying relationship history (never married, separated, divorced, or lack of significant relationships)
  • Poor work history (spotty work history or chronic unemployment)
  • Childhood abuse
  • History of violent behavior
  • Protective Factors
  • Married (or having a significant relationship)
  • Employed or involved in a structured program (educational or vocational training program)
  • Presence of a support system (family, friends, church, and/or social clubs)
  • Having children who are under 18 years of age
  • Constructive use of leisure time (enjoyable activities)
  • General purpose for living (including religious conviction)
  • Involved in mental health treatment
  • Effective problem-solving skills
  • Source: Adapted from Sánchez, 2001, Appendix A.