Risk Factors and Warning Signs

If you are worried about yourself or a friend, please call the 24 hour crisis line: 844-493-8255 or text TALK to 38255. If you are in an immediate emergency, call 911.

Risk Factors

Risk Factors are specific events that might trigger or cause depression or suicidal thoughts. These include, but are not limited to:

  • Trauma, such as a violent event or natural disaster.
  • Loss, such as death or that of a relationship.
  • Change, including divorce or moving.
  • Stress, related to school or unemployment.
  • Abuse of substances or physical / verbal abuse.
  • Mental and Physical Illness/Injury, such as a medical condition or poor health.
  • Genetics, including a family history of depression or suicide.

Warning Signs

Warning Signs are things or behaviors you may notice in yourself or others that could be signs of depression or suicidal thoughts, which include:

  • Prolonged sadness
  • Loss of sleep or excessive sleep
  • Loss of appetite or overeating
  • Sense of hopelessness or worthlessness
  • Alcohol and substance abuse
  • Decline in performance of work, school, or other activities
  • Reckless behavior
  • Giving away favorite possessions
  • Purchase of gun or pills
  • Sudden happiness after prolonged depression
  • Obsession with death and dying
  • Withdrawal from friends or family
  • Self-depreciating statements, such as…
    • “You won’t have to worry about me anymore.”
    • “I want to go to sleep and never wake up.”
  • Threats of suicide
  • Previous suicide attempts