Factors that make people vulnerable to suicide
Suicide is usually a response to a complex series of factors that can be personal, about our relationships, related to our community or society, or how we can seek and access health care.
A prior suicide attempt is the most significant risk factor for suicide in the general population, but other issues are known to contribute.
There is rarely a single reason why someone may try to take their own life.
Suicide is best understood by looking at each individual, their life, and their circumstances.
Click the arrows to see what factors make people vulnerable to suicide
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Financial strain or insecurity
Relationship conflict or discord
Mental ill-health
Alcohol or substance abuse
Chronic pain
Feeling isolated
Previous suicide attempt
Access to means
Trauma or abuse
Self harm
Reduced resilience or coping skills
Bereavement by suicide
Source: Preventing Suicide, WHO, 2014 Suicide (who.int)
