Understanding the Risk Factors for Suicide

 The loss of a loved one is especially tragic if suicide is the cause of death. In the aftermath of a suicide, you and your family members may need to schedule suicide cleanup with a team of cleaners that offer bio cleanup services near Orlando. When you are gathering information about suicide, it is essential to understand the difference between warning signs and risk factors. Risk factors are individual, familial, and social factors that could contribute to a person’s chances of suicide. Warning signs, by contrast, are immediate signals that a loved one is in need of help. In order to promote suicide awareness, let’s examine some of the top risk factors for suicide.

Family History

A person’s family history may contribute to his or her suicide risk. For example, a person who has experienced the suicide of other family members in the past may be more likely to take his or her own life. Other family factors that can add to a person’s suicide risk include past trauma, child maltreatment, or a family history of mental illness.

Health and Wellbeing

Health and wellbeing are two very important risk factors for suicide, and a person’s mental and physical health must be treated with equal importance. If a person has a serious physical or mental illness, he or she may be a suicide risk. Mental illnesses, such as clinical depression, have been directly linked to a direct risk of suicide. Other unhealthy behaviors, such as drug and alcohol abuse, may also be contributing factors.

Feelings of Hopelessness or Loss

If you are concerned about a loved one, you may want to talk to him or her about how he or she is feeling. The CDC defines feelings of hopelessness or loss as risk factors for suicide. When you start to notice that a friend or family member is isolating themselves or making very hopeless or negative statements, this could be a signal that suicide risk factors have evolved into suicide warning signs.