with young people's risk of suicide. Major factors include previous suicide attempt(s), the presence of psychiatric problems (e.g., depression, impulsive aggressive behavior, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders), drug and/or alcohol abuse), a family history of suicide, a parent having a psychiatric disorder, situational stress, access to firearms, and a history of sexual abuse. It is also noted that there could be some degree of genetic disposition.
Brown et al. (2004) note that the strongest contributors to teen suicide are psychological and family/environmental factors. Of the psychological factors, the authors state,
A psychological disorder or emotional difficulty increases the risk of suicide in an already troubled youth. Risk factors include a variety of psychiatric diagnoses (i.e., depression, borderline personality disorder, conduct disorder, schizophrenia, panic disorders), interpersonal problems, adaptive skill problems (poor impulse control, hopelessness), and past developmental experiences (i.e., trauma). Depression that is severe, and accompanied by hopelessness, social isolation, aggressive behavior, or anxiety is particularly predictive. The impulsive tendency to act without thinking through a plan and its consequences is a symptom of a number of these mental disorders and has been linked to suicidal behavior. (p. 1)
Brown et al. (2004) note that while child-parent interactions (family factors) can greatly contribute to suicide, they can also be used to reduce the risk for many teens. The primary family factors that require help for the teen include family loss
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