Abstract : In developed countries, suicide is a real public health problem. However, in contrast with a classical idea, suicide is not specific to young people. Indeed, late life suicide is a cause for major concern, particularly for those over 75 years. Psychiatric disorders, and more specifically major depression, are clearly the most important risk factors. However, socio-environnemental factors, such as life events and social isolation, should not be overlooked. Physical disorders are also important clinical elements. Unfortunately, all these risk factors are not very specific to suicide and the early detection and treatment of people at high risk remain important challenges.