Acenetwork’s Weblog

The ability to predict suicidal behavior is still relatively poor. It is difficult to distinguish those likely to attempt suicide from those who will complete suicide. However, in approximately 80% of cases, young people who complete suicide have communicated suicidal thoughts and feelings and their intent to kill themselves to someone prior to the suicidal act.

Although it is not possible to prevent every suicide, it is possible to recognize changes in behavior and the existence of common crisis that may precipitate suicidal behavior. Those who are likely to come into contact with young people can help. Knowledge of the warning signs and risk factors may help people to intervene in the potentially destructive process in which a young person is enveloped and take action to alleviate it.

The more of the observable signs, the more stressful episodes and chronic life stresses that a young person shows, the more at risk of suicidal behavior they generally are. It is important to note the duration and intensity of these factors and to consider any changes in observable behavior in the light of the individual concerned rather than necessarily comparing one person with another. Depressed mood and drug or alcohol abuse is a particularly deadly combination.

For more information on the warning signs, prevention and intervention, visit the ACE-network library.