This study examines risk factors for attempted suicide in the general community. Data from the 5-site NIMH Epidemiologic Catchment Area (ECA) Study were used to estimate lifetime prevalence & identify risk factors for suicide attempts. Persons who had a lifetime diagnosis of a psychiatric disorder had the highest risk. Females, separated or divorced persons, Whites, persons in the 2 lowest socioeconomic quartiles, & respondents from the Los Angeles ECA were more likely to have attempted suicide.