To give you some idea of the scope of the problem, suicide was the 11^th leading cause of death in the U.S. in 2006; in that year, over 30,000 Americans committed suicide (according to the National Institute of Mental Health).

In young people between the ages of 15 and 24, suicide was the third leading cause of death in that same year (2006). In the elderly (over age 65) suicide occurs more frequently (14.2 deaths/100,000 population) than the national average (10.9 deaths/100,000 population).

Up to 80% of people that commit suicide will provide some clue prior; approximately 20% do not. 70% of successful suicides are by males; of the total attempts across sexes, 70% are made by females. In other words, more attempts are made by women, but more successful attempts are made by men.

Of all the risk factors for suicide, the single most important one is a past history of a suicide attempt, either personally or by a family member. Other risk factors include:

1. physical illness (real or perceived)
2. loss of social status (e.g., social disgrace)
3. personal loss (of a loved one)
4. financial loss
5. drug/alcohol abuse
6. family/personal history of mental disorder or substance abuse
7. availability of a firearm
8. violence within the family

Here are some of the early warning signs of suicide to look for:

1. feeling helpless, hopeless
2. sad or “blue” almost all the time
3. unable to experience joy
4. loss of interest in usual activities
5. social withdrawal
6. significant mood changes
7. change in personality
8. talking of death or suicide
9. having a plan
10. access to a weapon or other means

If you notice the above thoughts, feelings, or behaviors in a friend, loved one, or even a business client (for instance, in the face of a financial loss), consider asking them about suicidal thoughts. It shows that you care, you’re there to help, and might begin the process of getting that person the professional help they need. Remember; you will not increase someone’s risk of suicide by asking!

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