Some ethnic groups and races are at higher risk. According to the National Institutes of Mental Health (NIMH), Non-Hispanic Whites and Native Americans had the highest rates of suicide in 2015, while Non-Hispanic African Americans, Asian and Pacific Islanders, and Hispanics had lower rates. Cultural and social risks include:
- Lack of social support and sense of isolation
- Stigma associated with seeking help for one’s (mental or emotional) problems
- Barriers to accessing health care, especially mental health and substance abuse treatment
- Certain cultural and religious beliefs
- Influence of others who have died by suicide
Biological & Psychological
A history of mental health disorders, particularly depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, place an individual at a higher risk for suicidal behavior. Other risks include:
- Alcohol and other substance use disorders
- Impulsive and/or aggressive tendencies
- History of trauma or abuse
- Family history of suicide
- Major physical illnesses or chronic pain
- Previous suicide attempt
- eating disorders or body dysmorphic disorder
Environmental
A job loss or financial loss can set off a sequence of emotional events that put an individual at greater risk for suicide. Other environmental risks include:
- Relational or social loss, such as a breakup with a boyfriend or girlfriend
- Easy access to lethal means, such as guns and firearms. However, this can also include poisons and prescription medications
- Local clusters of copycat suicides
