Risk rises when personal pain overlaps with isolation and access to lethal means. Signals include recent loss, substance use, trauma, prior attempts, legal/financial stress, and chronic illness/pain.

Actionable steps

  • Ask directly about thoughts, plans, and access to means.
  • Remove/lock firearms and medications; limit quantity at hand.
  • Co-create a safety plan and connect to care with a warm handoff.
If you’re in immediate danger: In the U.S., call or text 988. Outside the U.S., visit FindAHelpline.com.

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