Suicide

What is suicide?

Suicide is the taking of one's own life. It is a death that happens when someone harms themselves because they want to end their life. A suicide attempt is when someone harms themselves to try to end their life but does not die.

Suicide is a major public health problem. Both suicide and suicide attempts can have lasting harmful effects:

• People who survive a suicide attempt may have serious injuries that affect their long-term health. They may also have depression or other mental health concerns.
• When someone dies by suicide, it affects their family, friends, and community. Those left behind may feel grief, shock, anger, and guilt. Some may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, or anxiety. They may also be at risk for suicidal thoughts themselves.

Who is at risk for suicide?

Suicide does not discriminate. It can touch anyone, anywhere, at any time. But certain factors can raise the risk, including:

• Having attempted suicide before
• Depression and other mental health disorders
• Alcohol or drug use disorder
• Family history of a mental health disorder
• Family history of alcohol or drug use disorder
• Family history of suicide
• Family violence, including intimate partner violence, child abuse, or sexual abuse
• Easy access to means of self-harm — such as stored pesticides, large quantities of medication, or firearms
• Being exposed to others' suicidal behaviour — a family member, peer, or someone in the news
• Medical illness, including chronic pain
• Stressful life events — job loss, financial problems, loss of a loved one, or the end of a relationship
• Being between the ages of 15 and 24, or over 60

What are the warning signs for suicide?

The warning signs for suicide include:

• Talking about wanting to die or wanting to kill oneself
• Making a plan or looking for a way to kill oneself
• Stockpiling pills, pesticides, or other means
• Feeling empty, hopeless, trapped, or that there is no reason to live
• Being in unbearable pain
• Talking about being a burden to others
• Using more alcohol or drugs
• Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
• Sleeping too little or too much
• Withdrawing from family or friends, or feeling isolated
• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
• Extreme mood swings
• Saying goodbye to loved ones, putting affairs in order

Some people may tell others about their suicidal thoughts. Others hide them, which can make the signs harder to spot.

What should I do if I need help or know someone who does?

If you or someone you know shows warning signs for suicide, get help right away — especially if there is a sudden change in behaviour. In an emergency, dial 112.

You can also take these steps alongside someone who is at risk:

• Ask directly whether they are thinking about killing themselves.
• Keep them safe. Find out whether they have a plan, and keep them away from means they could use — medications, pesticides, sharp objects, or firearms.
• Be with them. Listen carefully and find out what they are thinking and feeling.
• Help them connect to help — a helpline above, their doctor, or a mental health professional.
• Stay connected. Staying in touch after a crisis can make a real difference.