Table 2.

Major Risk Factors for Suicide Among Adolescents

A previous suicide attempt A psychiatric disorder, especially major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, conduct disorder, and substance (alcohol and drug) use disorders Psychiatric comorbidity, especially the combination of mood, disruptive, and substance abuse disorders Personality disorders (especially cluster B disorders: antisocial, borderline, histrionic, narcissistic) Impulsive aggression (the tendency to react to frustration or provocation with hostility or aggression) Availability of lethal means Feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness that often accompany depression A family history of depression or suicide Loss of a parent to death or divorce Family discord Physical and/or sexual abuse Lack of a support network, poor relationships with parents or peers and feelings of social isolation Dealing with homosexuality in an unsupportive family or community or hostile school environment