Which of the following is listed as a risk factor for suicide?

• A. Depression
• B. Healthy coping
• C. Good social support
• D. a stressful situation or loss

Answer: (D)

When studying suicide risk, acute life stressors and losses are important triggers because they can overwhelm a person’s coping resources and amplify feelings of hopelessness or being overwhelmed. A stressful situation or loss is listed as a risk factor because it can precipitate a crisis, especially for someone who may already be vulnerable due to other factors.

Protective factors like healthy coping skills and good social support help people manage difficult times, reducing risk rather than increasing it. Depression is also a risk factor in general, but the option in question points to the impact of a challenging event or loss as a precipitating risk. In real life, risk comes from a combination of factors, and supportive surroundings can make a big difference in outcomes.