Risk Factors and Precipitating Events

• A stressful or traumatic event or an accumulation of events over a period of time

• Abusive relationships (parents, significant others, etc.)

• Real or perceived significant losses (death, friendship, moving, changing schools, loss of status or reputation, etc.)

• Depression

• Poor coping skills

• Previous suicide attempts (Was the rescue planned or accidental? Do the attempts get more lethal each time?)

• Recent suicide or attempt by a friend or family member

• Very high expectations or pressure to succeed, feeling that there is no room for failure

• Conflict or increased arguments at home, with friends or with significant other

• Frequent moves (lack of social support)

• Break-up with boyfriend/girlfriend

• Legal problems

• Prejudice or discrimination based on race, religion, gender or sexual orientation

• Difficulties dealing with change

• Social isolation