Suicidal Thoughts Or Threats – Health Information Library

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Overview

Suicide is a leading cause of death for people in most age groups. But often people who seriously consider suicide don't really want to die. They may think that suicide is the only way to solve their problems and end their pain.

People who have suicidal thoughts may not seek help because they feel helpless, hopeless, or worthless. These feelings may come from having a mental health problem, such as depression. These problems can be treated. It's important to seek help when suicidal thoughts occur. With treatment, you can feel better.

Many people have fleeting thoughts of death. These are less of a problem and are different from actively planning to try suicide. The risk of suicide is higher if someone often thinks about death and killing themself or if they have made a suicide plan.

Who's at risk

Most people who seriously consider or attempt suicide have one or more of the following risks:

  • A personal history of suicide attempts
  • A family history of suicide attempts or completed suicide
  • A personal or family history of severe anxiety, depression, or other mental health problem, such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia
  • A drug or alcohol problem (substance use disorder)

The chance of suicide is most serious when a person has a plan for suicide that includes:

  • Having the means available to try suicide or to harm another person, such as weapons or pills.
  • Having set a time and place to try suicide.
  • Thinking there is no other way to solve the problem or end the pain.

People who consider suicide often are undecided about choosing life or death. With compassion and support, they may choose to live.

Warning signs

The warning signs of suicide may change with age. For example:

  • In children and teens, they may include the recent breakup of a relationship.
  • In adults, they may include a recent job loss or divorce.
  • In older adults, they may include the recent death of a partner or being diagnosed with a life-limiting illness.

Don't be afraid to talk to someone if you're worried about them. Talking about suicide may actually help to prevent suicide.

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