If in need of immediate assistance please call 911 or the UHS Crisis Line (608-265-5600, Option 9). ​

Risk Factors
Risk factors are characteristics that make it more likely that someone will consider, attempt, or die by suicide. They can't cause or predict a suicide attempt, but they're important to be aware of.

• Mental disorders, particularly mood disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and certain personality disorders
• Alcohol and other substance use disorders
• Hopelessness
• Impulsive and/or aggressive tendencies
• History of trauma or abuse
• Major physical illnesses
• Previous suicide attempt(s)
• Family history of suicide
• Job or financial loss
• Loss of relationship(s)
• Easy access to lethal means
• Local clusters of suicide
• Lack of social support and sense of isolation
• Stigma associated with asking for help
• Lack of healthcare, especially mental health and substance abuse treatment
• Cultural and religious beliefs, such as the belief that suicide is a noble resolution of a personal dilemma
• Exposure to others who have died by suicide (in real life or via the media and Internet)

Warning SignsSome warning signs may help you determine if a loved one is at risk for suicide, especially if the behavior is new, has increased, or seems related to a painful event, loss, or change. If you or someone you know exhibits any of these, seek help by calling the Lifeline.

• Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves
• Looking for a way to kill themselves, like searching online or buying a gun
• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
• Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
• Talking about being a burden to others
• Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
• Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
• Sleeping too little or too much
• Withdrawing or isolating themselves
• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
• Extreme mood swings

Imminent Risk
If someone has indicated thoughts of suicide, plan to carry it out, means to complete suicide, and a timeframe within 24 hours, call 911. If you are on campus, you can request a CIT trained officer who is trained to handle mental health crises. There are also various resources (listed below) that are available 24/7 to help someone in need.

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Click on THIS website link to explore resources related to suicide prevention for a variety of social populations!

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Preventing Self-harm in Teens: A Guide for Appropriate Intervention

Resources
Suicide Prevention Lifeline 988 or 1-800-273-8255
Crisis Textline 741741
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
​SAVE
​Trevor Project
UHS 24 hour Crisis Line
​Resources for Loss Survivors 
Help After Suicide 

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