Statistics and demographics can show the probability of suicide and that may be important to know. People who talk about suicide rarely attempt or commit suicide. The tendency toward suicide is inherited. Suicide patterns in a family are a result of other factors and may result from a belief in the myth which facilitates suicidal actions. The suicidal person wants to die.
All suicidal persons are depressed.
A number of other emotional factors may be involved. Suicidal persons are mentally ill. Once a person has attempted suicide, she will always be suicidal. Asking a direct, caring question will often minimize the anxiety and act as a deterrent to suicidal behavior. Suicide is more common in lower socio-economic groups.