Suicide

The mental illnesses described in this text and others, as well as harsh upbringings, personal trauma, substance use, and low socioeconomic status increase the likelihood of an individual having suicidal ideation and attempting suicide. When looking for risk factors for suicidality the following acronym may be used that assesses the risk of suicide as low, moderate or high:

S-sex (females are more likely to attempt suicide but males are more likely to complete a suicide attempt)

A-age (young ages <19 years old and >45 years old are more likely)

D-depression

P-previous suicide or self harm attempts

E-excessive alcohol or other substance use

R-rational thinking loss

S-social supports lacking

O-organized plan (for how they are going to commit suicide)

N-no spouse

S-sickness or disease