Risk increases among white males age 65 and older White males age 85 and older have a suicide rate that is six times higher than the national rate Suicide is the third leading cause of death for young people ages 15-24

Gender

Men have a suicide rate four times as high as women, but Women attempt suicide more often and have higher rates of depression

Race African-Americans have lower rates than white Americans historically, but Starting in the 1980s, the rates for African-American male youth started to rise at a faster rate than white male youth

Biological Factors

Suicidal behavior can be linked to decreased levels of serotonin in the brain

Alcohol and Drug Abuse

Many people who abuse alcohol and drugs have several other risk factors for suicide, like depression, impulsivity, social problems or financial problems Abuse of alcohol and other drugs can increase the feelings of depression, loneliness and isolation

Illness

Non-psychiatric illness: serious, chronic or terminal illness

Psychiatric illness: Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders

Other Risk Factors

Family history of suicide Previous suicide attempt(s) Loss: death of a loved one, divorce, jail term, loss of self-esteem, financial security or relationship Stress/Crisis: Unanticipated event that threatens a person's well-being. Ineffective coping skills can increase length and impact of a crisis Cultural and religious beliefs: Some cultures believe that suicide is a noble resolution to a problem

The NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital Copyright © 2000 by NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, Behavioral Health Nursing Service Line

SMHAI Home | About Suicide | About Mental Health | Suicide Prevention | Suicide Survivors
Suicide Attempters | Self-Injury - Cutters | Crisis | Donate | SMHAI Library | Online Support & Resources
Speakers & Presentations | Memorials, Remebrances & Celebrations Of Life | Healing Music
Suggested Reading - Survivors | Suggested Reading - Attempters & Self-Injurers | Mental Health Pros.
Upcoming Events | Dr. Roerich's Welcome | Ann Gay's Welcome | Legal & About SMHAI
Privacy Policy | Copyright Notice | Awards Honoring SMHAI | SMHAI Awards Program | Contact

© SMHAI 2004 - 2006 All Rights Reserved.
No copying or redistribution without expressed written permission of SMHAI.
Logo Design by Allen R. Jacobson.
Site launched July 01, 2004.