Population Risk Factors

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• Among Black/African American students, anxiety is a key risk factor for suicide. Also, the behavioral risk factors of suicide, like those discussed on the previous screen, may be more pronounced.^[1] Additionally, experiences of discrimination, racism, and systemic oppression have been linked as risk factors for suicide.^[2]
• The pressure of adjusting to an unfamiliar culture (called acculturative stress) is a risk factor common to many diverse groups, especially recent immigrants, including Asian^[3], Latino/a^[4], and Middle Eastern and Arab^[5] students. Acculturative barriers for international students can include homesickness and culture shock, language barriers, feeling isolated, less financial opportunity, experiences with prejudice, and fear of seeking out mental health services.
• Mental health struggles, such as post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use, are common risk factors among returning veterans.^[6]
• Among students with mobility impairments and learning and emotional disabilities, all of the risk factors listed on the previous screen have been found to be more pronounced.^[7]
• Studies show that college students who identify as Latino/a, Asian/Pacific Islander, and multiracial exhibited more severe depressive symptoms (including hopelessness) on student health questionnaires.^[8]
• Members of the LGBTQ+ community often experience higher rates of discrimination, harassment, and victimization, which can contribute to major depression, anxiety disorders, and substance use.^[9] This also greatly increases the risk for suicide, and students of minority sexual orientation and gender identity report higher rates of suicidal thoughts and attempts.^[10]

Additionally, cultural sensitivity issues (e.g., sensitivity of the mental health provider) can be significant barriers to seeking help for students in racial/ethnic minority groups.¹⁸

It is important to note that college students are incredibly diverse and may hold multiple identities within groups that are historically marginalized, disenfranchised, underserved, and under-resourced (including those defined by sex, race/ethnicity, religion, gender identity, socioeconomic status, (dis)ability, body size, or sexual orientation). Some students may experience compounding effects of disparity and/or systemic inequality. Research shows that college students with multiple marginalized identities face particular challenges that may cause or exacerbate mental health symptoms and make seeking and receiving treatment more difficult.^[11]

Do you or someone you know need help now?

• For medical emergencies, dial 911.
• If you or someone you know is in crisis, visit the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline or call 1-800-273-8255.
• For support resources for UBalt students, faculty, and staff, visit the Office of Student Support or call the Student Assistance Program at 1-800-327-2251.