Suicide

Suicide claims the lives of about 35,000 Americans each year, ranking it among the top ten leading causes of death. For every person who commits suicide, anywhere from 10 to 100 others try. Many of those who attempt it will try again, and a number of those will succeed. And, here’s the irony! Except for a very few, all of the people who attempt suicide want desperately to live. Their suicidal actions are actually cries for help.

Why Do People Commit Suicide?

Unfortunately, there is no easy or standard answer to this question. Most suicide attempts are a result of problems that seem overwhelming. Below are some stressful situations that can trigger suicidal feelings:

• Depression: This is a leading cause of suicide. Personal loss, life changes, increased pressures, loneliness, heredity, or substance abuse may cause depression.
• Crisis/Impulse: Major life changes such as loss of an important person, job, difficulty expressing anger and frustration can lead people to attempt suicide before they have a chance to think things over.
• Old Age/Disease: The prospect of increasing pain and suffering, as well as loss of independence, income and dignity is frightening.
• Drugs/Alcohol: Drug or alcohol abuse can weaken a person’s self-control and often lead to suicide attempts and other self-destructive behavior.

Any combination of several of these situations occurring at one time is especially dangerous.

What are Some Warning Signs?

Experts say 80 percent of those who take their lives warn people beforehand. The indication that someone is considering suicide is a call to action, but there are distinct warning signs that merit specific mention:

• A suicide threat or other statement indicating a desire or intent to die. These statements should be taken seriously. They are very real signs of danger.
• Marked changes in behavior or personality
• Sudden changes in appetite and sleep habits, and loss of interest in hobbies and things that previously were pleasurable are common warning signs. When such changes occur for no apparent reason or persist for some time, it may be a clue to impending suicide.
• Getting affairs in order: People who are planning to end their lives often make arrangements accordingly. This may include drawing up or revising a will, getting financial records in shape, or giving possessions away.

What Can I Do?

The cardinal rule of suicide prevention is this: Do something! If someone confides in you that he or she is thinking about suicide or shows other signs they may be suicidal, don’t be afraid to talk about it. Your willingness to discuss it will convey to the person that you don’t condemn him for having such feelings.

No matter what else you do, or what the discussion leads to, make sure the person gets professional help. As soon as the signs of suicide start, a professional is needed. Suggest that the person contact a suicide prevention center, crisis intervention hotline, mental health clinic, hospital, family physician or clergyman. If the person doesn't follow through, then take it upon yourself to call for him or her. Staying close and letting the person know you care about what happens is very important.

For more information, call (601) 936-2024 or toll free (800) 863-4004. We offer confidential assessments and referrals.