The first step in preventing suicide is to identify and understand the risk factors. A risk factor is anything that increases the likelihood that persons will harm themselves. However, risk factors are not necessarily causes. Research has identified the following risk factors for suicide (DHHS 1999):

Previous suicide attempt(s)

History of mental disorders, particularly depression

History of alcohol and substance abuse

Family history of suicide

Family history of child maltreatment

Feelings of hopelessness

Impulsive or aggressive tendencies

Barriers to accessing mental health treatment

Loss (relational, 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 suicidal thoughts

Cultural and religious beliefs—for instance, the belief that suicide is a     noble resolution of a personal dilemma

Local epidemics of suicide

Isolation, a feeling of being cut off from other people