Socioeconomic disadvantage, including high unemployment, lack of education and low income, is associated with greater risk of suicide. Data from Victoria show that young males from areas of high unemployment, particularly rural areas, are at greater risk. 6 Findings from a Queensland study also indicate higher suicide rates in all age groups in areas of greater economic disadvantage. Family dynamics have an important role in suicidal behaviours. These events often predispose young people to mental disorders such as major depression and therefore increase their suicide risk.
Substance abuse is also a significant risk factor for suicide in young people.
Multiple substance abuse, for example alcohol and other drugs, including medications, increases the likelihood of death from suicide attempts. Teenagers struggling with issues of sexual orientation are reported to be more likely than their peers to commit suicide. Imprisonment increases by a factor of thirteen the risk of suicide among young males. These figures highlight the importance of both primary and secondary prevention. Availability of the means to suicide appears to play a major part in the method chosen.