We hear about risk factors and warning sings, but what is the difference.
While people may be at risk for suicide, it doesn’t necessarily mean they will actually attempt it. Whereas, a warning sign can mean that a crisis has already begun.
Psychology today has a great article about suicide risk factors where they identify 3 different categories: health, environment and history.
The article clearly explains the difference between a risk factor and a warning sign.
Remember, a crisis that has begun can be reversed with the right help.
Understanding the risk factors and warning signs will go a long way in helping you understand who may be susceptible to a crisis.
The problem is, how do you talk to a person as a family member or friend about suicide?
Just having a conversation can open the doors to help.
Here is an article that has a few tips on how to begin conversations with people who may be in crisis.
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/suicide-prevention/suicide-prevention.htm
Educating ourselves is one of the best thing we can do to help prevent suicide. Here is a page with many resources and links to other articles that may be of great help and importance.
https://www.sprc.org/settings/family-members-and-caregivers
