Suicide is the act of intentionally causing one’s own death.[6] Risk factors include mental disorders such as depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and substance abuse, including alcoholism and use of benzodiazepines.Other suicides are impulsive acts due to stress such as from financial difficulties, troubles with relationships, or from bullying.
Those who have previously attempted suicide are at higher risk for future attempts. Suicide prevention efforts include limiting access to methods of suicide, such as firearms, drugs, and poisons, treating mental disorders and substance misuse, proper media reporting of suicide, and improving economic conditions.Although crisis hotlines are common, there is little evidence for their effectiveness.