Suicide crisis

Suicide crisis is a situation where an individual is threatening suicide or making plans to commit suicide. The risk of suicide is highest when the individual has a specific suicide PLAN, the means to carry out the plan, a TIME SET for doing it, and an INTENTION to do it.

Definition

A suicide crisis, suicide event, or suicide attempt, is a situation where a person is threatening to harm themselves with the intention of committing suicide, but has not yet done so. It can also mean that a person who has previously attempted suicide is about to do so again.

Risk Factors

There are several risk factors that can lead to a suicide crisis. These include:

• Mental health disorders: People with mental health disorders such as depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and others are at a higher risk of suicide.
• Substance abuse: Substance abuse can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair, increasing the risk of suicide.
• Family history of suicide: Individuals who have a family history of suicide are at a higher risk.
• Previous suicide attempts: Those who have previously attempted suicide are at a higher risk of attempting again.
• Chronic pain: People suffering from chronic pain may be at a higher risk of suicide.

Prevention

Prevention of a suicide crisis involves recognizing the warning signs, providing support and treatment, and helping the person develop a positive life outlook.

Treatment

Treatment for a suicide crisis often involves a combination of therapies, including psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. It's important to seek help from a mental health professional if you or someone you know is in a suicide crisis.

See Also

• Suicide prevention
• Mental health
• Depression
• Bipolar disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Substance abuse

• 
  988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline logo