Suicide Prevention

Warning Signs of Suicide

How do you remember the warning signs of suicide? Here's an easy way to remember: IS PATH WARM? Ideation, Substance Abuse, Purposelessness, Anxiety, Trapped, Hopelessness, Withdrawal, Anger, Recklessness, and Mood Change. Download the IS PATH WARM flyer from the American Association of Suiciodology. If observed, seek help as soon as possible by contacting a mental health professional or calling (800) 273-TALK or visit www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org.

Risk Factors

Risk factors are stressful events, situations, or conditions that exist in a person's life that may increase the likelihood of attempting or dying by suicide. There is no predictive list of a particular set of risk factors that spells imminent danger of suicide. It is important to understand that risk factors DO NOT cause suicide. Risk factors most strongly associated with suicidal behavior include individual, peer/family, community, and society. Download more information.

Protective Factors

Suicide Data 

• The suicide rate for young black males (15-24) has risen by 66% over the past fifteen years
• In Wisconsin, suicide is the second most common cause of death among people age 15-34. It is the third nationally.
• The #1 cause of suicide is untreated depression. Most people who are depressed do not complete suicide, but depression increases the risk.
• Wisconsin Youth Risk Behavior Survey available via the Department of Public Instruction.
• HOPES fact sheet, WI Violent Death Report, Burden of Injury

Resources and Articles