Does depression increase the risk for suicide?

Although the majority of people who have depression do not die by suicide, having major depression does increase suicide risk compared to people without depression. The risk of death by suicide may, in part, be related to the severity of the depression. Most, but not all, people who commit suicide have a mental illness. This includes depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, or schizophrenia. Additionally, mental illness also includes substance-abuse disorders.

Untreated Clinical Depression and Suicide Risk:

Untreated clinical depression is a serious problem. Untreated depression increases the chance of risky behaviors such as drug or alcohol addiction. It also can ruin relationships, cause problems at work, and make it difficult to overcome serious illnessesSuicide is the second leading cause of death in young people. A major cause of suicide is mental illness, very commonly depression. … An individual considering suicide frequently confides in a friend, who may be able to convince them to seek treatment. Who commit suicide have a mental illness. This includes depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, or schizophrenia. Additionally, mental illness also includes substance-abuse disorders.

Warning Signs of Suicide:

• Making statements about feeling hopeless, helpless, or worthless
• Want to live alone
• Preoccupation with death
• Taking unnecessary risks or exhibiting self-destructive behavior
• Socially withdrawal
• A loss of interest in the things one cares about
• Visiting or calling people one cares about
• Feeling of guilt.

If you or your loved one is going through any of the above-mentioned signs and symptoms, please consult a psychiatrist at the earliest.