7 Factors That Increase the Risk of Suicide

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Suicide is a serious public health concern in America around the world. This is the 10th leading cause of premature death in the United States, while 10.3% of Americans have thought about suicide. Educating about suicide risk factors can help save the life of your loved one. 

Keep reading to obtain more information about the main contributing factors to suicide. 

1. Sex

Because women are incorrectly thought to be more emotionally unstable, most people think that the rates of women dying from suicide are higher. But statistics show that the number of men's suicide is dramatically higher than women's suicide. While women are more likely to attempt suicide, men die from suicide 3.6x more often than women. 

This happens because of the methods men and women choose for suicide. Male suicide methods are often more violent, making them more likely to be completed before anyone can help.

2. Insomnia

Insomnia has been established as a risk factor for depression and mental illness for decades. But newer evidence suggests insomnia to be an independent risk factor for suicide for all age groups. People who suffer from chronic insomnia have a significantly lower quality of life. 

Moreover, insomnia caused by nightmares can make you even more prone to suicide. Nightmares can turn suicidal behavior into the repeated suicide attempts, especially when persistent over time. 

3. Age

Age is another major risk factor for suicide. In the past, suicide prevention methods were focused on the elderly and the young. People who are younger than 25 and those who are older than 45 are at higher risk of taking their own life. However, suicide rates among the middle-aged population have also increased significantly in recent years. 

4. Chronic health conditions

People suffering from chronic health conditions like chronic pain are at higher risk of suicide. Chronic pain often decreases the quality of life and takes a toll on mental health. Suffering from persistent pain can result in feelings of hopelessness and suicidal thoughts. For this reason, people with chronic health conditions are often recommended to get the help of psychologists to prevent mental health problems and decrease the risk of suicide. 

5. Mental health illness

Mental health illnesses are a major risk factor for suicide. Over 90% of those who died by suicide were diagnosed with one or several mental health conditions at the time of their death. Mental conditions that are commonly linked to suicide include:

- Eating disorder

- Depression

- Bipolar disorder

- Schizophrenia

- Anxiety 

- Posttraumatic stress disorder

This happens because people with these mental health conditions feel hopeless and believe that suicide could be the solution to their problems. They stop thinking about their future, making plans and let their emotions take control over their lives. Treating mental health issues is crucial to reduce the risk of suicide. 

6. No social support

Poor social support includes a lack of regular contact with friends or family, religious support, or a job that gives your life meaning, and meaningful contact with others is another risk factor for suicide. People who lack one of these factors can frequently experience suicidal thoughts and are at higher risk of developing mental health problems. Establishing solid social communication can help decrease the risk of suicide. 

7. Excessive alcohol or drug use

People suffering from drug or alcohol abuse are at higher risk of taking their own lives. Excessive use of alcohol and narcotics can worsen existing mental health problems, thoughts of suicide, and increase the impulsiveness that often contributes to suicide. Besides, people with drug or alcohol abuse often have a low quality of life and face social isolation. These two factors also increase their risk of suicide.