Risk Factors for Suicide
- Psychiatric Disorders
At least 90 percent of people who kill themselves have a diagnosable and treatable psychiatric illnesses -- such as major depression, bipolar depression, or some other depressive illness - Past History of Attempted Suicide Between 20 and 50 percent of people who kill themselves had previously attempted suicide. Those who have made serious suicide attempts are at a much higher risk for actually taking their lives.
- Genetic Predisposition
Family history of suicide, suicide attempts, depression or other psychiatric illness. - Neurotransmitters
A clear relationship has been demonstrated between low concentrations of the serotonin metabolite 5-hydroxyindoleactic acid (5-HIAA) in cerebrospinal fluid and an increased incidence of attempted and completed suicide in psychiatric patients. - Impulsivity
Impulsive individuals are more apt to act on suicidal impulses. - Demographics
Sex: Males are three to five times more likely to commit suicide than females.
Age: Elderly Caucasian males have the highest suicide rates.
If you are experiencing a crisis, please call Crisis Intervention:
New Castle - (302) 577-2484 - Kent/Sussex - (800) 345-6785
or go the nearest hospital or emergency center, or call 911.