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Suicide Risk Factors, Warning Signs & Protective Measures

By: Karina Thadani • Edited by: Alyssa Hill • Subject Matter Expert Reviewed by: Brindusa Vanta, MD • 13 cited sources • Updated Oct 29, 2024

Suicide is a complex, sensitive issue that affects people across the world. Every year, more than 700,000 people lose their lives to suicide^[1]. Whether you’re dealing with suicidal thoughts or recognizing signs in a loved one, it’s important to approach the topic with empathy and care. In this article, we’ll review suicide risk factors, common warning signs, and protective measures you can take. 

Key Takeaways

• Individual, relational, and environmental challenges can increase the risk of suicide.
• There is an overlap between suicide and mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety. 
• Recognizing warning signs of suicide, such as verbal and behavioral cues, can help ensure timely treatment.  

Risk Factors for Suicide That You Should Know

Suicide is rarely the result of a singular event. Rather, it’s linked to various long-term factors, including individual, relationship, and societal challenges^[4]. For example, people who experience bullying are more likely to experience low self-esteem and suicide ideation^[5]. Similarly, people who undergo violence in their daily lives are more vulnerable to negative, harmful thoughts.  

Ultimately, a person’s unique circumstances—such as their personal history, relationships, and environment—play a major role when it comes to suicide risk. It’s important to note that while these factors increase the risk of suicide, they are not a guarantee that suicide will occur. 

Individual Factors That May Contribute to Suicide Risk

Individual factors include personal struggles and experiences that make someone more vulnerable to suicidal thoughts, including:

• Mental health disorders (e.g. depression and anxiety)
• Substance use
• History of trauma or abuse
• Job loss or financial problems
• Chronic illness
• Previous suicide attempts

Relationship Factors That May Contribute to Suicidal Behavior

Relationship dynamics may also contribute to suicide risk. These factors include the following: 

• Bullying
• Loss of relationships (such as through death, divorce, or conflict)
• Social isolation
• Violent relationships 
• Family history of suicide 

Societal and Environmental Factors That May Contribute to Suicide Risk

Community and environmental factors influence the likelihood of suicide, such as:

• Lack of access to healthcare and support
• Exposure to community violence, trauma, or suicide 
• Cultural or religious beliefs that stigmatize mental health
• Socioeconomic disparities and financial inequity 
• Access to lethal means (e.g. firearms and toxic substances)
• Discrimination 

The Connection Between Mental Health Conditions & Suicide

Whether you’re grappling with individual mental health struggles or community-related problems, these factors all impact mental well-being. Research shows a significant overlap between mental health and suicide; approximately 46% of people who die by suicide also have a mental health condition^[6]. Let’s take a closer look at these conditions and how they affect suicide risk. 

Depression & Suicide

In 2021, over 21 million adults experienced a major depressive episode^[7]. Characterized by feelings of hopelessness, depression leads to social isolation, low self-esteem, and suicidal thoughts. 

Anxiety & Suicide

Many people experience anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety, social anxiety, and panic attacks^[8]. While each disorder has its own symptoms, both typically involve persistent worry and fear. Over time, this distress can increase vulnerability to suicidal thoughts in some individuals, especially in those who also have depression.

Bipolar Disorder & Suicide

Bipolar disorder causes extreme mood swings, ranging from emotional highs (mania) to lows (depression)^[9]. During manic episodes, people might engage in dangerous, impulsive behaviors. Meanwhile, depressive episodes deepen feelings of hopelessness and thoughts about suicide. 

Substance Abuse & Suicide

Studies show alcohol and substance use disorders increase the risk of suicidal thoughts^[10]. Substances can impair judgment, negatively affect mood, and encourage impulsive behavior. Not to mention, substance use may worsen symptoms of mental health conditions. 

PTSD & Suicide

Exposure to traumatic events, such as war, assault, or a natural disaster, may lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)^[11]. This condition negatively affects emotional well-being through intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, and fear. People with PTSD are also more likely to develop depression, anxiety, and substance use, all of which contribute to suicide risk. 

Warning Signs of Suicidal Behavior

People experiencing suicidal thoughts often avoid discussing their feelings, which is why it’s essential to recognize warning signs, including verbal, behavioral, and emotional cues^[12]. Here are a few signs to look out for:  

• Discussions about hopelessness, pain, or suicide
• Sudden mood changes (such as increased irritability, depression, or anxiety) 
• Increased substance use
• Social isolation
• Giving away possessions
• Lack of interest in activities 

If you notice these signs in yourself or a loved one, don’t ignore them. Early intervention is crucial for suicide prevention.

What to Do If You Are Concerned for Yourself or a Loved One

Suicide is a sensitive topic that requires empathy and care. If you’re worried about warning signs, start by expressing your concerns and fostering an open, honest conversation. Refrain from making judgments and focus on listening to your loved one. If necessary, you can also take more intensive protective measures. 

Protective Measures Against Suicide

The following measures may assist with suicide risk:  

• Coping mechanisms: Practices like meditation and exercise can help improve mood. 
• Social support: Studies show loneliness increases suicide risk^[13]. If you’re concerned about a loved one, let them know that you’re available to provide emotional support. 
• Professional support: Trained professionals, such as counselors, therapists, and psychiatrists, have the experience to help reduce suicide ideation.
• Crisis resources: If your loved one refuses to seek help or you’re worried about their safety, consider contacting a crisis hotline such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. This is also a valuable resource if you’re dealing with suicidal thoughts yourself. 

In addition to positive social support and easy access to professional mental health support, a 2023 research study found a few other important protective factors against suicide. They include: having a sense of responsibility to family, positive problem-solving and coping skills, spirituality, and positive therapeutic relationships.

Dr. Brindusa Vanta, MD

Whether you’re helping a friend or are worried about yourself, keep working toward improving symptoms. Treatment can go a long way toward relieving negative thoughts and preventing suicide. 

Recognize the Signs & Seek Help

Suicide is a serious issue that affects people across the globe, especially those with mental health conditions. To mitigate risk, it’s important to prioritize your mental well-being and seek professional support if needed. While suicidal thoughts may make you feel hopeless, help is available. And, with the right support, you can overcome negative feelings and improve mental wellness. 

What to Do If You or Someone You Know Is In Crisis

• Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
  988lifeline.org^[2]
• Crisis Text Line: Text TALK to 741-741 
• Suicide Prevention Resource Center^[3]

Written by Karina Thadani

Karina Thadani is a graduate in English and Political Science from Boston College with over eight years of experience in writing. She has experience with a diverse range of subjects, including law, health care, mental health, and science. In her downtime, she enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with her dog.

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Edited by Alyssa Hill

Alyssa Hill is an experienced editor and health writer. She holds an M.A. in journalism from the University of Arizona and is also a certified somatic practitioner. A former content manager for multiple start-ups in the marketing and health/medical industries, Alyssa has extensive experience writing medically accurate and well-researched content, editing articles for clarity and SEO, adhering to strict guidelines, and ensuring all content is up to standards.

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Subject Matter Expert Brindusa Vanta, MD

Dr. Brindusa Vanta is a healthcare professional, researcher, and medical subject matter expert . She earned her MD degree from "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine, Romania. She has a special interest in mental health and has collaborated with psychologists and other mental health practitioners on various research projects focused on therapies to manage depression, age-related cognitive decline, trauma and stressor- related conditions.