Suicide has a lasting harmful effect on individuals, families, and communities. There are many factors that contribute to suicide. Together we can prevent suicide by reducing factors that increase risk and increasing factors that promote resilience.
Talk to Someone Now
If you’re thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, call or text 988 for help. Services are available for people who speak Spanish, for people who are deaf and hard of hearing, and for our nation's veterans.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.
Factors that Increase Risk of Suicide
Suicide is rarely caused by a single circumstance or event. Instead, a range of factors—at the individual, relationship, community, and societal levels—can increase risk. These risk factors are situations or problems that can increase the possibility that a person will attempt suicide.
A few factors include:
- Depression and other mental illnesses
- Alcohol and other substance use disorders
- Job or financial loss
- Stigma associated with asking for help
- Loss of a relationship
Learn how we can all prevent suicide and other factors that increase suicide risk.
Factors that Promote Resilience
Similar to risk factors, a range of factors can promote resilience and protect people from suicide. Everyone can help prevent suicide. We can take action in communities and as a society to support people and help protect them from suicidal thoughts and behavior.
A few actions include:
- Supporting friends and family
- Talking about suicide
- Checking on loved ones
- Receiving mental health support when needed
Learn how we can all take action and other factors to protect against suicide risk.
World Suicide Prevention Week (2023)
Everyone copes with stress, loss, and change differently. DHEC encourages all South Carolinians to take steps to protect their mental and emotional health.
During Sept. 10-16, 2023, DHEC observes suicide prevention week by sharing resources aimed at raising awareness, spreading hope and sharing vital information on how everyone can play a role in suicide prevention.
South Carolina Data
- Suicide was the 12th leading cause of death in 2020.
- Suicide was the third leading cause of death for those aged 10 to 24 and 25 to 34.
- Suicide accounted for 797 deaths in 2021.
Fact Sheets
- Suicide and Self-Inflicted Injuries in South Carolina - (PDF)
- Youth Suicide in South Carolina - (PDF)
- Suicide Among Older Adults in South Carolina - (PDF)
Helpful Resources
- Suicide Prevention webpage
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
- Talk Away the Dark campaign aimed at initiating open conversations about mental health and lighting the way for people in distress to feel comfortable asking for help. The program offers conversation starters and conversation guides to help loved ones navigate conversations about suicide.