
Suicide Prevention
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention defines suicide as:
Death caused by injuring oneself with the intent to die. A suicide attempt is when someone harms themselves with any intent to end their life, but they do not die as a result of their actions.
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Many factors can increase the risk for suicide or protect against it. Suicide is connected to other forms of injury and violence. For example, people who have experienced violence, including child abuse, bullying, or sexual violence have a higher suicide risk. Being connected to family and community support and having easy access to healthcare can decrease suicidal thoughts and behaviors.



FIREARMS

Firearms are the leading cause of suicide deaths in Maryland.

VETERANS

20% of those who died by suicide had served in the U.S. armed forces

SUBSTANCES

36% of those who died by suicide had alcohol or drug dependencies.