Health Tip

The best way to prevent suicide is to make sure you know the following risk factors and warning signs of suicide.

Suicide Risk Factors
Certain conditions/situations are associated with an increased risk of suicide:

• death or terminal illness of a relative or friend
• divorce, separation or the breakup of a relationship
• loss of health (real or imaginary)
• loss of job, home, money, status, self-esteem or personal security
• alcohol or drug abuse
• depression

In addition, there are certain times when people may be more prone to suicidal feelings, such as:

• holidays and anniversaries
• the first week after discharge from a hospital
• when treatment with an antidepressant first begins
• just before and after diagnosis of a major illness
• just before and during disciplinary proceedings

Emotionally, the suicidal person may be feeling:

• overwhelming pain
• hopelessness
• powerlessness
• worthtlessness, shame, guilt or self-hatred
• fear of losing control and harming themselves or others

Behaviorally, the person may:

• appear sad, withdrawn, tired, apathetic, anxious, irritable, or prone to angry outbursts
• not be performing well in school, work, or other activities
• become socially isolated or fall in with the wrong crowd
• have declining interest in sex, friends, or activities previously enjoyed
• neglect personal welfare or let their appearance go
• experience a change in eating or sleeping habits

Source: About.com Guide

Courtesy: Health Prior 21.