Why do people commit suicide?

With the recent September 11th anniversary and the attempted suicide of Hollywood actor Owen Wilson, once again the issue of suicide has been brought to our attention. Here are some general clues as to why someone may want to take their own life.

Assessing Suicidal Symptoms: (SAD PERSONS scale):

• Sex

  While females are more likely to kill themselves than males, males are three times more likely to succeed in their attempts.

• Age

  The risks are greater for people who are aged 15 to 24 or younger, or men aged 75 or older.

• Depression

  Here are some symptoms of depression:
  http://www.helpguide.org

• Previous attempts

  those who have tried before are more likely to succeed than those who are attempting the first time.

• Ethanol and other drug abuse

  substance abuse is involved in one-third or more adolescent suicides.

• Rational thinking loss

  people who suffer from mental or emotional disorders are more likely to kill themselves.

• Social supports lacking

  Healthy relationships can give you support, strength and positivity in your life.

• Organized plan

• No spouse

• Sickness

Recommendations:

What to do if you know someone who has suicidal thoughts or you yourself may have symptoms, call 911.
There will be professionals trained to help.

You can also call this toll-free number, available 24 hours a day, every day: 1-800-273-TALK (8255). You will reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, a service available to anyone. You may call for yourself or for someone you care about. All calls are confidential.

Here are some resources surrounding this issue:

The http://family.samhsa.gov website offers a description of suicide warning signs in young people, as well as more resources.

http://www.suicide.org is a suicide prevention program that offers articles, as well as phone numbers to call.

http://www.save.org also has more information and resources regarding suicide awareness.

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (http://www.afsp.org) conducts scientific research and has many educational resources.

The http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org has a hotline to call, as well ways to get involved in spreading the world for suicide prevention.

The Psych Central article outlines common signs of someone who may be suicidal.

This blog only skims the surface of this deep issue, but I believe that from sharing of information can we begin to become more aware of the issues abroad.

Source:

W. M. Patterson, H.H. Dohn, J. Bird, and G.A. Patterson, “Evaluation of Suicidal Patients: The SAD PERSONS scale,” Psychosomatics 24(4): 343-349.