Suicide is often seen as a solution, or as a final act of desperation by a person who is suffering from tremendous emotional distress. Although the trauma or turmoil varies for each person, there are some incidents or circumstances that may place a person at greater risk. Some risk factors are:
Previous suicide attempts
History of mental disorders (especially depression)
History of alcohol or substance abuse
Family history of suicide
Family history of child maltreatment
Feelings of hopelessness
Impulsive or aggressive tendencies
Barriers to accessing mental health treatment
Loss (love, social, work, or financial)
Physical illness
Easy access to lethal methods
Unwillingness to seek help because of the stigma attached to mental health and substance abuse disorders or suicidal thoughts
Cultural and religious beliefs--for instance, the belief that suicide is a noble resolution of a personal dilemma
Local epidemics of suicide
Isolation, a feeling of being cut off from other people
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