Suicide
Risk Factors for Suicide
A combination of individual and social factors contribute to the risk of suicide. Risk factors are characteristics associated with suicide; they might not be direct causes.
- Family history of suicide
- Family history of child maltreatment
- Previous suicide attempt(s)
- History of mental disorders, particularly clinical depression
- History of alcohol and substance abuse
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Impulsive or aggressive tendencies
- Cultural and religious beliefs
- Isolation, a feeling of being cut off from other people
- Barriers to accessing mental health treatment
- Loss (relationship, social, work, or financial)
- Physical illness
- Easy access to lethal methods
- Unwillingness to seek help because of the stigma attached to mental health and substance abuse disorders or to suicidal thoughts
What should I do if someone I know is considering suicide?
If you know someone who is considering suicide, do not leave them alone. Try to get them to seek immediate help from their doctor or the nearest hospital emergency room, or call 911. Remove any access they may have to firearms or other potential tools for suicide, including medications.
Protective Factors for Suicide What should I do if someone I know is considering suicide?
Protective factors help individuals from suicidal thoughts and behavior.
- Effective clinical care for mental, physical, and substance abuse disorders
- Easy access to a variety of clinical interventions and support for help seeking
- Family and community support
- Support from ongoing medical and mental health care relationships
- Skills in problem solving, conflict resolution, and nonviolent ways of handling disputes
- Cultural and religious beliefs that discourage suicide and support instincts for self-preservation
If you are in crisis call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) | Reachout Hotline: 1-800-522-9054
24 hours a day, 7 days a week. All calls are confidential.
Call 2911 for on Campus Police .
Comanche County Memorial Hospital’s Emergency Room
is located directly across the street from Cameron University’s Campus on Gore Boulevard.
Taliaferro Community Mental Health Center is located west of Cameron University Shepler buildings. They are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
