Facts About Suicide

Suicide risk in Colorado is strongly correlated with depression, other mental disorders and substance abuse. Data from the Colorado Violent Death Reporting System (2004 to 2006) confirm findings in suicidology literature about common precipitating factors for suicidal behavior among various age and gender groups. Specifically:

● Nearly half of Colorado teenagers who died by suicide had experienced a personal crisis within the two weeks prior to their death, including intimate relationship conflicts or losses, disciplinary problems and other stressful life events. Suicidal youth are also likely to be depressed, abuse alcohol and have a history of aggressive and antisocial behavior.

● In 45% of deaths by suicide among 20- to 24-year-olds, there was evidence of a problem with an intimate partner. Seventy percent of the young adults who died by suicide had experienced a depressed mood prior to their death.

● More than two-thirds of men ages 25 to 54 who died by suicide experienced depression in the days prior to their death, and the large majority had not sought or received professional help. Nearly one-third of the men in this age group had a problem with alcohol. Other factors that can exacerbate suicide risk in middle age, for men and women alike, include the loss of a spouse or child, deteriorating health, downward job mobility and social isolation.

Suicide and Depression

Suicide Statistics

Survivors of Suicide

Warning Signs of Suicide

Youth Suicide