Risk Factors
Name one mental health condition that is a risk factor for suicide.
Mood disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, or certain personality disorders.
Name one way a person might verbally express suicidal thoughts.
Talking about suicide, hopelessness, or saying goodbye.
Myth or Fact: Talking about suicide makes someone more likely to attempt it.
Myth — Asking can actually bring relief.
What should you do if you suspect someone may be suicidal?
Believe your suspicions and take them seriously.
What’s the first question you can ask someone to check in on their feelings?
“When did you begin feeling like this?”
What type of past behavior is a strong predictor of future suicide risk?
Previous suicide attempt(s).
What does it mean when someone suddenly seems very calm after being depressed?
They may have decided to attempt suicide, and the calmness reflects acceptance.
Myth or Fact: Only certain types of people become suicidal.
Myth — Suicide affects people of all ages, races, genders, and socioeconomic groups.
Why is it important to be direct when talking to someone at risk?
It opens communication and helps determine if they have a suicide plan.
Why is it important to ask if the person has a plan?
The more detailed the plan, the higher the risk.
Give two examples of life stressors that can increase risk.
Job/financial loss, loss of relationships, bullying, harassment, or trauma.
List two behavioral signs that may indicate suicidal thinking.
Withdrawing from others, seeking lethal means, self-destructive behavior, or preoccupation with death.
Myth or Fact: Suicide is usually caused by one single factor.
Myth — It is rarely caused by just one factor.
What does the “A” in ACT stand for?
Ask questions (be direct and compassionate).
How might you phrase a question to explore the root cause of their feelings?
“Did something happen to make you start feeling this way?”
How does lack of social support increase risk?
It creates isolation, leaving individuals without people to turn to in times of crisis.
Why is “getting affairs in order” considered a warning sign?
It suggests the person is preparing
Myth or Fact: People who talk about suicide never actually do it.
Myth — Talking about suicide is a serious warning sign.
Name two things you should NOT do when helping someone at risk.
Don’t promise secrecy, don’t leave them alone if risk is immediate, don’t act shocked, don’t try to counsel them yourself.
What question helps encourage professional support?
“Have you thought about getting help?”
Why does exposure to suicide in the media or community increase risk?
It can lead to “suicide contagion,” where vulnerable people see it as an option.
What does withdrawal from others often signal?
Hopelessness, isolation, and potential suicidal thoughts.
Myth or Fact: Suicide prevention can eliminate all suicides.
Myth — It can greatly reduce suicide rates but not eliminate them entirely.
Why is removing lethal means a key step in suicide prevention?
It reduces immediate risk by limiting access to methods of self-harm.
What supportive question can you ask to show you want to help them through the situation?
“How can I best support you through this difficult time?”