Suicide is the act of intentionally ending one’s own life. It is often linked to mental health conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, and substance use disorders, but it can also be influenced by situational stressors such as trauma, financial hardship, loneliness, or feelings of hopelessness.

Key Aspects of Suicide:

• Emotional Pain & Hopelessness: People who consider suicide often feel overwhelmed by emotional distress and may believe there is no way out of their suffering.

• Risk Factors: Mental illness, past suicide attempts, social isolation, major life stressors, and access to lethal means (e.g., firearms, medications) can increase suicide risk.

• Warning Signs: These may include talking about wanting to die, withdrawing from loved ones, drastic mood changes, giving away possessions, or engaging in reckless behavior.

• Preventable with Support: Many people who feel suicidal do not actually want to die—they want relief from their pain. Support from loved ones, therapy, crisis hotlines, and professional help can be life-saving.

If You or Someone You Know is Struggling

• Reach Out for Help: Talk to a trusted friend, family member, therapist, or crisis hotline.

• In the U.S., Call or Text 988: The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers free, confidential support 24/7.

• Seek Professional Help: Therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups can provide guidance and treatment.

• Check In on Others: If you notice someone showing signs of distress, let them know they are not alone and that help is available.

You are not alone, and things can get better.

Globally, one person dies by suicide every 40 seconds (source).

According to NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (source)….

• Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among people aged 10-14 and the 3rd leading cause of death among those aged 15-24 in the U.S.

• ​Suicide is the 12th leading cause of death overall in the U.S.

• 46% of people who die by suicide had a diagnosed mental health condition

• 90% of people who die by suicide may have experienced symptoms of a mental health condition, according to interviews with family, friends and medical professionals (also known as psychological autopsy)

• Annual prevalence of serious thoughts of suicide, high risk populations:

  • U.S. Adults: annual average 4.8%

    • Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander: 7.4%

    • Mixed/Multiracial: 8.2%

    • American Indian/Alaska Native: 8.5%

  • Youth Populations

    • Young adults aged 18-25: 13%

    • High school students: 22%

    • LGBTQ youth: 45%

• Lesbian, gay and bisexual youth are nearly 4x more likely to attempt suicide than straight youth

• 79% of people who die by suicide are male

• Transgender adults are nearly 9x more likely to attempt suicide at some point in their lifetime compared to the general population