Who's at Risk ?
While there is no stereotypical "suicidal type" the following
risk factors may increase the risk for suicide in some youth.
- Diagnosis of depression or other psychiatric disorder
- Chronic or terminal illness
- Previous suicide attempt
- Family history of suicide
- Recent suicide of family member, friend, classmate
- History of sexual, physical, or verbal abuse
- History of self injury
- Engaged in risky or self-destructive behaviour (i.e. smoking, dangerous driving, substance abuse, unprotected sexual activity)
- Perfectionist
- Low self-image, low self-esteem
- Gay or lesbian youth - confusion around sexual orientation
- Youth living on the street
- Social isolation or neglect from family
- A traumatic or recent loss (includes divorce)
- First Nations
