Risk Factors
Men are 4 times more likely than women to die
from suicide. However, 3 times more women than
men attempt suicide. In addition, suicide rates are
high among young people and those over age 65.
Several factors can put a person at risk for
attempting or committing suicide, but having these
risk factors does not always mean that suicide will
occur.
• Prior suicide attempt
• Family history of mental disorder
• Alcohol or other substance abuse
• Family history of suicide
• Family violence, including physical or sexual
• abuse
• Firearms in the home, the method used in more
• than half of suicides
Need Help? Call:
Emergency - 911
Military Crisis Line - 1-800-273-TALK (8255) - Press 1
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline - 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Military One Source - 1-800-342-9647
The Defense Center of Excellence (DCoE) - 1-866-966-1020
Wounded Soldier and Family Hotline - 1-800-984-8523
CONUS DSN: 421-3700OCONUS DSN: 312-421-3700
Warning Signs
Thinking about suicide and making suicide plans are the
most serious signs and require immediate assistance. These
include:
• Talking about, threatening, or wanting to hurt/kill self
• Obtaining means to kill/hurt self (e.g., obtaining firearm,
pills)
• Conveying thoughts of death (e.g., su