Understanding Suicide Risks
Introduction
Suicide is a critical public health issue that affects people from all walks of life. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it was the 12th leading cause of death in the U.S. in 2021, claiming over 48,000 lives (CDC, 2022). Despite the numbers, many feel helpless when facing it—whether they’re experiencing suicidal thoughts themselves or trying to support someone else. By understanding the warning signs and knowing how to respond, we can take meaningful steps to prevent suicide.
Recognizing the Warning Signs
Suicidal thoughts don’t always come with clear signals, but certain behaviors and expressions can indicate someone is struggling. Changes in behavior—like withdrawing from social situations, giving away personal belongings, or suddenly seeming “at peace” after a period of intense sadness—can be red flags.
Other times, it’s what someone says. Phrases like:
“I can’t go on.”
“The world would be better off without me.”
“I feel trapped.”
...can suggest they’re considering suicide. Even if these comments seem casual or off-hand, it’s crucial to take them seriously.
Risk Factors for Suicide
Some factors increase a person’s vulnerability to suicidal thoughts or actions. Common risks include:
Mental health struggles:
Conditions like depression, PTSD, or borderline personality disorder.
Isolation:
Feeling disconnected from loved ones or society.
Major life stressors:
Breakups, financial crises, or bullying.
Access to lethal means:
Firearms or medications that could be misused.
It’s not always easy to tell who’s at risk, but staying alert to these factors helps us protect those we care about.
Who Can You Reach Out To
When someone is feeling suicidal, reaching out can feel impossible. Shame, fear, or the thought of being a burden often keeps people silent. But there are compassionate, understanding people ready to help.
Trusted Friends or Family:
Sometimes, just saying, “I’m struggling” can open the door to support. You don’t have to explain everything right away—just let someone close to you know you need help.
Mental Health Professionals:
Therapists, counselors, or social workers are trained to provide nonjudgmental support. They can guide you toward coping strategies or connect you with resources.
Crisis Helplines:
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 for anyone in the U.S. It’s free, confidential, and staffed by people who genuinely want to help.
Campus Resources:
For college students, many schools offer free or low-cost counseling through their health centers. Reaching out to student services can be a good first step.
Check out our resources page to find crisis hotlines and warmlines that you can reach out to.
Creating a Safety Plan
If you’re struggling with suicidal thoughts, creating a safety plan can help you navigate those difficult moments. A safety plan is a personalized guide that outlines steps you can take when you’re in crisis. Here’s what it might include:
Warning Signs:
Write down the feelings, thoughts, or situations that signal you’re entering a crisis.
Coping Strategies:
Identify simple actions—like listening to music, taking a walk, or breathing exercises—that help you feel calmer.
Support Network:
List the people you can call when you need to talk. Include friends, family, or professionals, and don’t be afraid to ask for their help.
Emergency Contacts:
Include crisis hotlines like 988 or the number for your local hospital.
Safe Environment:
Remove or limit access to anything you could use to harm yourself. This might mean asking someone to hold onto medications or locking up sharp objects.
It’s a good idea to create this plan with someone you trust, like a therapist or close friend. Keep it somewhere accessible—on your phone, in your journal, or saved to your computer—so it’s easy to reference when you need it.
Check out this website if you'd like to create your safety plan! https://www.mysafetyplan.org/
Prevention is a Team Effort
Suicide isn’t something we should face alone. Whether you’re experiencing thoughts of suicide or supporting someone who is, remember that help is always available. By recognizing the warning signs, understanding risk factors, and creating a safety plan, we can take important steps toward healing and hope.
If you or someone you know needs immediate support, don’t hesitate to reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Your life matters, and there are people who want to help you through this.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2022). Web-based Injury Statistics Query and Reporting System (WISQARS). https://www.cdc.gov/injury/wisqars/
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). (2023). Suicide prevention. https://www.nimh.nih.gov
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). (2024.). Talk saves lives: Warning signs and risk factors of suicide. https://afsp.org
