Suicidal ideation can occur when a person is experiencing stress or other mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, substance use issues, and posttraumatic stress disorder. Suicide cuts across the life span, affecting young children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. Groups at greater risk of suicide include veterans, LGBTQ+, youth and young adults, men, and middle-aged adults. Negative impacts are experienced not only by the person having suicidal thoughts, but others (such as family, friends, and community) who are survivors of suicide (see our grief and loss page).
Risk factors for suicidal ideation/suicide are:
Suicidal ideation is among the leading causes of death in the United States.
Common symptoms include: