Frequently asked question

People of all genders, ages, and ethnic backgrounds can be at risk for suicide.

Key risk factors include:

• A history of previous suicide attempts
• Depression, other mental health disorders, or substance use disorder
• Chronic pain
• A family history of mental illness or substance use
• A family history of suicide
• Exposure to family violence, such as physical or sexual abuse
• Access to firearms or other lethal means
• Recent release from prison or jail
• Exposure to suicidal behavior in others, such as family members, friends, or celebrities

It’s important to note that most people with risk factors do not attempt suicide, and it is often difficult to predict who may act on suicidal thoughts. While risk factors are important to consider, those showing warning signs of suicide may be at higher immediate risk and require urgent attention.

Stressful life events—such as losing a loved one, legal or financial problems—and interpersonal stressors, including shame, harassment, bullying, discrimination, or relationship difficulties, can increase the risk of suicide, especially when combined with other risk factors.

Warning signs that someone may be at immediate risk of attempting suicide include:

• Talking about wanting to die or harm themselves
• Expressing feelings of emptiness, hopelessness, or having no reason to live
• Discussing feeling trapped or seeing no way out of their problems
• Experiencing unbearable emotional or physical pain
• Mentioning that they feel like a burden to others
• Withdrawing from family and friends
• Giving away valued possessions
• Saying goodbye to loved ones
• Organizing personal affairs, such as writing a will
• Taking dangerous risks, like driving recklessly
• Frequently talking or thinking about death

Additional warning signs that someone may be at risk of attempting suicide include:

• Exhibiting extreme mood swings, such as suddenly shifting from sadness to calmness or happiness
• Making a plan or seeking out methods to end their life, like searching online for lethal means or acquiring pills or a weapon
• Talking about overwhelming guilt or shame
• Increasing use of alcohol or drugs
• Displaying anxiety, agitation, or restlessness
• Significant changes in eating or sleeping patterns
• Expressing anger or talking about revenge

Effective, evidence-based interventions are available to support people at risk of suicide:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a form of psychotherapy that helps individuals manage stressful experiences by teaching them to recognize negative thought patterns and develop healthier ways to cope. This therapy can help people identify and respond differently when suicidal thoughts arise.

• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): DBT is a type of psychotherapy that has been proven to reduce suicidal behavior, especially in adolescents. It has also been effective in lowering suicide attempts among adults with borderline personality disorder, a condition marked by mood swings, impulsive actions, and relationship difficulties. Trained therapists help individuals recognize harmful feelings or behaviors and develop skills to manage distress more effectively.

• Brief Intervention Strategies: Research shows that developing a safety plan or crisis response plan, with clear steps on what to do and how to seek help when experiencing suicidal thoughts, can reduce the risk of acting on those thoughts. Staying connected and following up with at-risk individuals also lowers the likelihood of future suicide attempts. Additionally, promoting the safe storage of firearms and other lethal means has been shown to decrease suicide attempts and fatalities. Collaborative assessments and management of suicide risk can also help reduce suicidal thoughts.

• Collaborative Care: This team-based approach to mental health involves a behavioral health care manager working with the individual, their primary care provider, and mental health specialists to create a comprehensive treatment plan. Collaborative care has been shown to effectively treat depression and reduce suicidal thoughts.

If you notice warning signs of suicide—particularly a change in behavior or new, troubling actions—seek help immediately.

Family and friends are often the first to spot these signs, and they can take the important first step in helping their loved one access mental health support.

If someone shares that they are considering suicide, never leave them alone. Avoid promising to keep their suicidal thoughts a secret—reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or another reliable adult.

In the event of an immediate life-threatening situation, call 911 right away.

Knowing how to respond when someone posts suicidal messages on social media can be life-saving. Many platforms offer ways to get help for the individual posting. For more information, visit the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline’s webpage on social media safety and support.

If you come across messages or live streams indicating someone is actively engaging in suicidal behavior, you can alert the platform’s safety teams. They will work to connect the person with the appropriate help and resources.

If you’re concerned about your mental health, talk to your health care provider. They will listen to your concerns and help you determine the next steps. You can also find helpful tips on how to discuss mental health issues with your doctor.