September is Suicide Prevention Month and we are introducing a series of H4HK Cheat Sheets to help people to better understand the issue of suicide and how they can help. Check back each Tuesday for the rest of the month for additional cheat sheets. This first sheet covers Suicide Risk Factors. The text is included below and a printable pdf version can be accessed by clicking the picture above.

Introduction

Risk Factors for suicide are those things about a person and their circumstances (many of which they have no control over) that statistically make them more predisposed to attempt suicide. They are different than warning signs which are specific behaviors which may indicate a person is contemplating suicide. It is important to consider both the warning signs (which are current and specific to an individual) and the risk factors (which are historic and based on a person’s circumstances and experiences) when assessing the risk of suicide.

Risk Factors Continue reading