Are You Sick?
Suicide Concerns
Suicide in the US
- Suicide attempts, threats or plans must always be taken very seriously. Thoughts or talk about killing or hurting oneself also need evaluation on a timely basis. So do comments about "no reason to live." Emergency rooms are often your best resource.
- Suicide risk starts at age 10, upon starting middle school.
- These rates have gone up during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Suicides are a mental health crisis in the US.
Risk Factors for Suicide Completion (Death)
Suicide deaths continue to increase each year in the US. Signs of risk include:
- Specific, thought out plan for committing suicide
- Access to lethal methods, such as a loaded firearm or dangerous medications
- Prior suicide attempt
- Family history of completed suicide
- Prior diagnosis of psychiatric illness
- Heavy use of alcohol or drugs
- Serious or chronic medical disease or disability
- Childhood maltreatment, especially sexual abuse
- Impulsive, risk-taking behavior
- Feeling helpless or worthless