______ is a predictor of suicide

• A. Anxiety
• B. Depression
• C. Stress
• D. Happiness

Answer: (B)

Depression is the strongest predictor of suicide risk among these common emotional states. When someone experiences persistent depressive symptoms, they often feel hopeless, worthless, and overwhelmed by despair. This depth of negative thinking and emotional pain can lead to thoughts of ending their life as a way to escape the suffering. Depression also brings changes in sleep, appetite, energy, and social withdrawal, which can worsen functioning and isolation, further increasing risk. While anxiety and stress can heighten distress and worsen overall risk, they don’t predict suicidality as reliably as depressive illness does. Happiness or positive mood, on the other hand, tends to protect against suicide by reinforcing hope and connectedness. If you or someone you know shows signs of depression or suicidal thoughts, seek help from a trusted adult or a mental health professional promptly.