Young men and those with chronic illness are more at risk. A good educational background and high performance expectations are also risk factors. Some people are more aware of their illness than others and fear for the future and possible deterioration. Suicide is more likely to happen in an upswing of the disorder, when the symptoms have abated a little and the person sees reality more clearly. Feelings of hopelessness may run high at this time.
People often keep their thoughts of suicide very private.
Rarely do professionals know how they feel. People are more likely to confide in family members, most naturally their mothers or close siblings. Talking about suicide should be taken seriously as it is often a plea for help. Most people who commit suicide have a history of depression or depressive features. They have taken a bleak view of the future.