Although suicide attempts are more frequent for women, men are more likely than women to complete suicide because they typically use more effective methods, such as a firearm.
You may be at risk of suicide if you:
Feel hopeless, socially isolated or lonely
Experience a stressful life event, such as the loss of a loved one, military service, a breakup, a significant medical illness, or financial or legal problems
Have a substance abuse problem — alcohol and drug abuse can worsen thoughts of suicide and make you feel reckless or impulsive enough to act on your thoughts
Have suicidal thoughts and have access to firearms in your home
Have an underlying psychiatric disorder, such as major depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, personality disorder, anxiety or detachment from reality (psychosis), or paranoia
Have a family history of mental disorders, substance abuse, suicide or violence, including physical or sexual abuse
Have a medical condition that can be linked to depression and suicidal thinking, such as chronic disease, chronic pain or terminal illness
Are bisexual, homosexual or transgender with an unsupportive family or in a hostile environment
Attempted suicide before