What is a key sign of historical capability for suicide?

The presence of a family history of suicide attempts is a significant indicator of a person's historical capability for suicide. Research has demonstrated that individuals with relatives who have engaged in suicidal behavior are at an increased risk for similar actions. This familial pattern can be attributed to several factors, including genetic predispositions, learned behaviors, and environmental influences.

Understanding a person's background, including familial tendencies, helps clinicians assess risks and develop appropriate intervention strategies. Recognizing this aspect of a patient's history provides crucial insight, as it may signal a need for closer monitoring and more intensive support based on the potential inherited vulnerability to suicidal behaviors.

In contrast, other options—such as current happiness, recent medical check-ups, or having a supportive social network—do not necessarily indicate a historical capability for suicide. While these factors may positively influence a person's mental state and overall resilience, they do not provide insight into past behaviors or risks associated with lethal intent.