What percentage of those who commit or attempt suicide have a diagnosed mental health disorder?

The statistic indicating that about 90% of individuals who commit or attempt suicide have a diagnosed mental health disorder highlights the significant connection between mental health issues and suicidal behavior. This figure underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing mental health conditions in at-risk individuals.

Mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, can severely impact a person's ability to cope with stressors and make sound judgments about life and death. The presence of these disorders often leads to feelings of hopelessness, emotional pain, and an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and actions.

Understanding this statistic is critical for healthcare providers, as it reinforces the necessity for routine mental health screenings for individuals who show signs of distress or are at risk of suicide. Effective prevention strategies can be put into place when there is awareness of the high prevalence of mental health disorders among those at risk, leading to better outcomes for individuals struggling with both their mental health and suicidal thoughts.

The other percentages presented are lower than the established research indicates. Each rejected option suggests a significant, yet understated, relationship between mental health disorders and suicide attempts or completions, which does not fully capture the reality as demonstrated by extensive studies and statistics in the field of mental health and suicide prevention.