Depression, an anxiety or personality disorder, or a chemical imbalance are the most well known risk factors for suicide. A family history of suicide, lack of social support, and unwillingness or inability to seek help from others also contribute to the problem. In addition, stressful life events such as the death of a loved one, rape, continual abuse, divorce, unemployment, illness, or moving to a different place may increase the risk of suicide. With the growing number of youth suicides, other risk factors have been found. An additional risk factor for committing suicide, especially for youths, is the availability of a firearm.
Alcohol can also play a part in suicide.
One-third of Oklahomans over 14 years of age who commit suicide have alcohol in their system. Limiting firearm access for potentially suicidal persons is a very important step for the prevention of suicides. Community programs to identify suicide attempters and provide assistance are also needed as well as expanding programs to integrate older persons into all segments of society. More information is needed about suicide and those who attempt it in order to provide the very best prevention.