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Depression is an important risk factor for suicide, but it is not the only one. The World Health Organization says suicidal behavior can involve a combination of health, psychological, social, cultural and environmental factors. Some people may also experience suicidal thoughts without having a diagnosed mental health condition.
That broader picture matters during Suicide Prevention Month because focusing on one diagnosis can make other warning signs easier to overlook. The CDC similarly says suicide is rarely caused by a single circumstance or event. Risk can involve individual experiences, relationships, communities and wider social conditions.
Here are five factors that deserve attention.
1. Chronic pain and serious illness can increase risk
Living with chronic pain or serious illness can place additional pressure on a person. The CDC lists serious illness, including chronic pain, among individual factors associated with increased suicide risk. WHO also identifies chronic pain and illness as factors that can contribute to suicidal behavior.
The experience can also overlap with other challenges, including reduced independence, financial pressure and social isolation. That is why physical health belongs in conversations about suicide prevention.
2. Bipolar disorder requires careful attention
Bipolar disorder is associated with suicide risk, but the relationship is more complex than simply describing it as more dangerous than depression. WHO identifies bipolar disorder among mental health conditions relevant to suicide prevention, while clinical assessment considers the person’s symptoms, history and circumstances.
This distinction matters because people can experience different combinations of mood symptoms, substance use, physical illness and stressful life events.
3. Substance use can increase vulnerability
Alcohol and drug use can contribute to suicide risk. The CDC lists substance use among individual risk factors, while WHO also identifies alcohol and drug problems among factors associated with suicidal behavior.
Substance use can also occur alongside other difficulties. That combination can make it harder for someone to cope with intense emotional distress.
4. Loneliness and social isolation matter
A person does not need a psychiatric diagnosis for social disconnection to become important. WHO identifies loneliness and isolation among factors associated with suicidal behavior, while the CDC lists social isolation as a relationship-level risk factor.
Connection can work in the opposite direction. Support from family, friends and community can provide protection by helping people feel connected and supported.
5. Financial and housing problems can add pressure
Job loss, financial problems and housing instability can create serious stress. The CDC lists job and financial problems or loss among suicide risk factors. WHO also identifies financial problems and other life stresses as factors that can contribute to suicidal behavior.
These circumstances do not mean someone will attempt suicide. The CDC stresses that risk factors do not predict suicide on their own. Most people who experience them do not attempt or die by suicide.
Suicide prevention therefore requires more than identifying depression. It also means paying attention to physical illness, substance use, isolation, financial strain and other forms of distress while strengthening social connection and access to care.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or experiencing suicidal thoughts, contact local emergency services or a crisis service available in your country. In the United States, call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
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